The volunteer-run Border Rambler bus service in Cumberland is seeking new volunteers so it can expand its community services, reports the Cumberland News & Star.
Now in its eighth year of operation, the operator is looking forward to the delivery of a new bus, and operates routes through Laversdale, Irthington, Hethersgill, Scaleby Hill and Linstock into Carlisle on Tuesdays and Fridays, plus a Wednesday-only service to Brampton via Lanercost and Birdoswald to Gilsland.
A Border Rambler spokesperson said: “A new bus, delivered early in 2023, would enable us to expand the service, running on more days and covering new areas. We are looking for ten or twelve new volunteers to join the team of drivers.
“This involves two hours in the morning and two in the afternoon, with a couple of hours free in Carlisle or Brampton while the passengers are doing their shopping. All the current drivers find volunteering really rewarding, with most taking a turn at the wheel once or twice a month.”
A regular passenger told the newspaper that the service is a lifeline for many who live in isolated places. “We are so grateful to the volunteers, and we hope that this appeal will find enough new drivers to enable the service to expand and continue,” the passenger said.
