The Annual Meeting of the local Community Minibus (Midsomer Norton & Radstock Community Service Vehicle Trust – Reg Charity No 276166) was held at Midsomer Norton Town Hall on 14th October.

Melvyn Johnson, (Chairman), highlighted the position that the organisation found itself following the National COVID Pandemic which brought all its activities to a sudden halt in March 2020. Since then, the vehicle has been laid up, there being no income apart from a welcome grant from the West of England Combined Authority whilst insurance and necessary repairs have continued.

Nick Rogers, (Vehicle Manager), reported that during the last eighteen months, the Peugeot Boxer minibus has been kept in running order but the need for a necessary part from the French manufacturers has not so far been obtainable through our local dealer. This means that we are hopeful that the replacement part will be available within the next few weeks and that our silver minibus will once again become a familiar sight within the local area performing the very important role of getting people out and about and involved in community activities.

The Chairman also mentioned that retirements had taken place. Stephen Powell, for many years the Trust’s Co-ordinator, and Carol Price have both stepped down as Trustees, leaving just two Trustees (minimum number needed – three). Debbie Gunfield was no longer able to continue as Co-ordinator and Valerie Humphries wished to come off the Management Committee. Thanks, Stephen, Carol, Debbie and Val for all your hard work for the good of the local Community! Also, thanks to Natalie, Chris, Nick and all other volunteers for their continuing work behind the scenes!

So, what of the future? If the work of the local community minibus is to continue, serving lunch clubs, churches, retirement organisations and the like, then new people to administrate will be needed. Therefore we are extremely keen to attract members of the community to join the Committee and, in particular, to undertake the very important volunteer role of booking co-ordinator, the position of which is vacant at the moment. In addition, we also have need for someone to join our team of Trustees for the responsibility of ensuring that the charity is properly run. With COVID still with us, thus limiting the numbers carried on the vehicle, together with all the regulations and requirements to be complied with, it won’t be easy!

The vision of the original founders, the Midsomer Norton & Radstock Rotary Club and the local Red Cross Committee, has been amply achieved since 1967. It would be a shame if this voluntary service for the senior members of the community and those with health conditions or impairments and other charities or non-profit organisations needing a vehicle and driver was allowed to cease due to lack of helpers.

Major decisions need to be made in the ensuing months. Can you or any local organisation help us? Do give this your active consideration and phone Melvyn Johnson on: 01761 452585 or Nick Rogers on: 01761 413872. Thank you!