Giggling Kate delights elderly minibus passengers as she joins volunteers community group that helps pensioners enjoy their independence
The Princess of Wales visited West Sussex Minibus in Pulborough, joining volunteers on a trip to collect an older passenger and attending a weekly lunch club. Her visit highlighted how community transport can help people who face isolation, mobility barriers or financial hardship stay independent and connected.
Catherine met 94-year-old Stella Drewett and chatted with lunch-club guests, joking about sharing household chores with the Prince of Wales and enjoying salted crisps. The volunteer-run service marks its 50th anniversary this year; it has 11 minibuses operating from eight village hubs, with 284 volunteers, and makes about 13,000 passenger journeys across 60,000 miles annually.
- Catherine visited a volunteer minibus service in Pulborough.
- The service helps older residents stay connected and independent.
- Its 11 minibuses make 13,000 journeys each year.