The Connections Bus Project Launch New Youth Bus

On Saturday 25 February, The Connections Bus Project will be launching its new youth bus in villages around Cambridge. The bus has been bought and converted thanks to a grant from The Big Lottery. This much needed replacement for the project’s 26 year old double-decker bus will go straight into use on 27 February. All are welcome to come and have a look round with free refreshments.

Cambridge, Cambridgeshire (PRWEB) February 20, 2006 -- On Saturday 25 February, The Connections Bus Project will be launching its new youth bus in villages around Cambridge. The bus has been bought and converted thanks to a grant from The Big Lottery. This much needed replacement for the project’s 26 year old double-decker bus will go straight into use on 27 February. All are welcome to come and have a look round with free refreshments.

The replacement bus (converted by South East Coachworks) offers many of the facilities that have proved successful and popular in the old bus such as games consoles, music and refreshments as well as state of the art improvements that include: 4 personal computers all with internet connection via a self-seeking satellite dish, professionally built interior with comfortable seating areas, access ramp to lower deck, video and music on both decks, a hot drinks machine and opportunities to take online courses in anything from vehicle maintenance to social care.

The local charity has for over 10 years been using a double-decker bus as a mobile youth club and information resource in rural villages with little or no youth provision. The young people in the 6 villages the project currently visits have been awaiting the arrival of this new bus since August 2005 and have been involved in many aspects of the design and equipping.

Press Only Preview
Thursday 23 February 10am
At South Cambs District Council Offices, Cambourne
An exclusive opportunity for the press to see the new bus before its launch. With visit by John Ballantyne (CEO SCDC).

Itinerary for Launch Day 25 February
09:30 - The Green, Church Street, Willingham
10:45 - Recreation Ground, Queens Way, Oakington
12:15 - Brown’s Garage, Green End, Comberton
13:30 - Recreation Ground, High Street, Haslingfield
15:15 - Co-op Shop, High Street, Fulbourn

Quotes
“The Big Lottery grant came at just the right time with our existing bus on its last legs. I can’t wait to get the new bus out there to the young people that need it.” – Alan Webb (Project Manager)

“The new bus is a real boost for the project and will ensure a continuing high quality service is available for young people in the local area.” – Steve Whyatt (Founder of project and previous Project Manager)

John Ballantyne CEO of South Cambridgeshire District Council said during his presentation at the bus project’s AGM in December “The District Council has seen the success of the project over many years and is delighted that a new bus has been acquired, enabling this valuable work to continue.”

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