Midhurst community bus service under threat

Volunteers who run the Midhurst Yellow Bus have warned that the service's future is at risk.

For the past 30 years, the bus has provided a vital transport link for residents in Midhurst and surrounding villages, helping people access shops, services and social activities while reducing isolation.

However, at the organisation's recent AGM, chairman Paul Mellings said falling passenger numbers and an ageing volunteer base mean the service may not be able to continue beyond next year.

Volunteer drivers are finding it increasingly difficult to renew their licences after the age of 70 and, when Mr Mellings steps down next year, there is currently no successor in place to take over as chair.

The organisation also needs to recruit new trustees and find someone to take over the monthly driver rota together with other minor administrative tasks.

During the meeting, members discussed whether closer collaboration with other community transport providers in the area could help secure the service's future.

Dominic Merritt, a Chichester district councillor, offered to establish a working group to explore opportunities for cooperation between the schemes.

Both Mr Merritt and Yvonne Gravely, West Sussex County Councillor for Midhurst, have expressed concern about the future of the bus.

Writing on Facebook, Mrs Gravely urged residents to support the service. She said: "If you use it, your loved ones use it, or you can help keep it going by volunteering, please get in contact with Paul Mellings."