The HandeBus is run by Downland Volunteer Group and offers a bespoke service to residents in the Downland villages, through the help of volunteer drivers.

Passengers contact the group and are collected from their homes and driven to Newbury and Wantage for shopping, medical appointments (often in volunteer's own car), Fantastic Friday day trips and other venues. Friendly drivers will help load shopping on and off the vehicle and, if required, carry shopping to your front door.

To book a trip to a medical appointment please give at least four days’ notice prior to your appointment to organise a driver. To book phone the DVG office in the Compton surgery between 9.30-11.30am Monday to Friday on 01635 578 394 or email dvg.office@btinternet.com.

The HandeBus is ideal for passengers with mobility issues as it's equipped with easy access side steps, comfortable seats, air conditioning in the summer, and heating in the winter. In addition, the Handebus can safely carry up to two wheelchair users with their carers as it is fitted with a hydraulic tail lift.

Regular users of the service can get to know each other as it’s an opportunity to meet and chat with friends and neighbours. Many friendships have been formed helping to reduce isolation and loneliness.

More volunteer drivers are always very welcome to help keep this invaluable service going.