TV vet appeals for 'lifeline' rural bus drivers

A TV vet has backed an appeal for volunteer drivers to come forward to keep a sausage company's free rural bus service going.

Heck Food, based in Bedale, launched its nine-seater pink minibus in October 2024, to help reduce isolation for people living in rural parts of North Yorkshire.

It has no set timetable, with residents able to make their own travel bookings - and has proved a popular "lifeline".

Peter Wright, from Channel 5 series The Yorkshire Vet, said: "The biggest problem we've got though now is - because it is such a successful venture - we're just lacking drivers."

Mr Wright added: "Rural loneliness isn't just about being alone - it's about being cut off, physically, emotionally and socially.

"The bus is a lifeline.

"I've seen elderly people who've gone days without speaking to another soul. This bus helps people reconnect. It brings back dignity and joy."

The bus service was launched after research commissioned by Age UK, found more than 1.1 million older people relied on using public transport to access company.

Becky Keeble, from sausage company Heck Food, said the service was "another way of connecting with our community".

But she added: "We need more volunteer drivers to help us reach even more people.

"If you can spare some time to help us drive the bus, and keep the wheels turning, we'd love to hear from you."

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