Leeds charity celebrates a new arrival (Leeds Liberal Democrats)

Leeds Liberal Democrats <info@leedslibdems.org.uk>

Leeds charity celebrates a new arrival

August 24, 2010 12:00 AM

A north Leeds charity is celebrating the arrival of a brand new mini bus, after months of fund raising and a £10,000 donation from local councillors.

Councillor Ryk Downes (Lib Dem, Otley & Yeadon) was delighted to officially open the bus last week on behalf of Aireborough Voluntary Services to the Elderly with Disabilities.

Earlier this year Cllr Downes, who sits on the charity's management committee, encouraged the Yeadon-based group to apply for a £10,000 grant from the North West (Outer) Area Committee. The charity, which had already worked hard to raise £24,000, was thrilled when the committee approved the grant.

AVSED aims to support elderly people who want to live independently at home. The mini-bus is vital in order to transport older people to gentle exercise classes and the group's four social centres. The charity also provides services such as carer support, befriending services, outreach days and bereavement counselling.

Cllr Downes (Lib Dem, Otley & Yeadon) said:

"AVSED does some absolutely brilliant work tackling loneliness and social isolation in Yeadon, Rawdon and Guiseley - and transport is key to the success of many of their services.

"That's why I was so pleased that the Area Committee could step in and provide some extra funding for the mini-bus. After AVSED had done so well raising the rest of the money it would have been devastating if they hadn't reached their target.

"Cutting the ribbon on the new bus was fantastic. Over 400 people used the old bus and I'm sure this one will prove to be just as popular. "