The HECK! Community Bus is celebrating its first birthday this month, and what a year it’s been!
Since launching our Community Bus in October 2024, we’ve clocked up 107 trips, tackling loneliness and bringing people together across North Yorkshire nearly every day of the week. From seaside outings and school trips to charity excursions and festive celebrations, the bus has helped hundreds of local residents get out, connect and make new memories.
The project wouldn’t exist without our amazing team of volunteer drivers, whose kindness keeps the wheels turning. Among them is Matty Lewis from The Fortus Foundation, our youngest volunteer driver, who was inspired to get involved after hearing The Yorkshire Vet, Peter Wright, appeal for volunteers earlier this year.
Peter has supported the project since day one, helping to raise awareness about rural isolation. “The HECK! Community Bus is a great example of community spirit in action,” said Peter. In rural Yorkshire, isolation and loneliness can be a real challenge, but this bus has become a lifeline, connecting people across generations, from schoolchildren to seniors. It’s heart-warming to see so many volunteers, like Matty, stepping forward to help their neighbours and make a real difference.”
Research from the Rural Services Network shows that people living in rural areas are almost twice as likely to experience loneliness due to limited transport and fewer local services. The HECK! Community Bus helps bridge that gap, offering everything from day trips for older residents to school visits and charity outings.
Over the past year, the bus has supported local schools like Pickhill, Mowbray and Moorside, as well as charities including Community Works, Scott's Creative Arts Foundation and Visit Masham. Trips have ranged from Whitby and Saltburn-by-the-Sea to York Christmas Markets and Ripon Cathedral, helping passengers build friendships and enjoy new experiences.
HECK!’s Community Ambassador, Becky Keeble, said the project’s impact has been remarkable, “When we launched the HECK! Community Bus, we hoped it would make life a little easier for people in our community. What we didn’t expect was just how many friendships, memories, and connections it would create. We’ve seen everyone, from schoolchildren to retirees, travelling together and sharing stories.”
Since its first trip to Lancaster Castle in October 2024, the bus has completed 18 trips in 2024 and 89 in 2025, with plenty more planned. Even HECK! staff have joined in for volunteering days, strengthening ties with the communities they support.
As the HECK! Community Bus rolls into its second year, plans are already underway for new collaborations with schools, charities and community groups – all with one mission: to keep Yorkshire connected.
To find our more or volunteer, please email sausages@heckfood.co.uk or call 01845 567 709.
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