[C]OPELAND Mayor Mike Starkie will be cutting the ribbon next week to mark the delivery of two new minibuses for the Muncaster Microbus scheme.
The new Mercedes buses were funded by the Department of Transport to help meet the needs for a community bus service in West Cumbria. The Muncaster Microbus serves residents of Bootle, Ravenglass, Waberthwaite, Eskdale, Seascale, Gosforth and Wasdale and runs a twice-weekly “Whitehaven Wanderer” service to Whitehaven as well as other destinations, regular excursions and theatre trips.
The Muncaster Microbus is a charitable community transport company operated completely by volunteers. The buses can be hired by groups for day trips. The Muncaster Microbus is a member of the National Concessionary Fare Scheme, so “NoW” free bus passes held by eligible people can be used on the “Whitehaven Wanderer” service. Bookings may be made by telephoning 01229 717229.
The delivery of the two new vehicles will permit the development of a more flexible door-to-door service and allow exploration of new route possibilities and services. The Muncaster Microbus hopes to work with local healthcare providers to help with patient transport and to expand the services to Egremont market and other local events.
The launch event takes place on Friday, September 15 at 11am at Muncaster Castle.
