A community bus started to ensure disabled and elderly people in Handforth can get out and about at weekends is now up and running.

The Mobility and Access Group (MAG) are offering a free pick up scheme which will allow people to go shopping, visit people in hospital or see friends they may otherwise not be able to due to lack of weekend public transport.

Volunteer drivers have now been trained and the refurbishment of the bus given to the group by Cheshire East Council is complete.

Tatton MP Esther McVey, who attended the launch of the community bus scheme at Handforth Dean, said: “This will make such a difference to residents who are unable to get out either because they have no local bus or it doesn’t run when they need it. We have such fantastic people in our community who care for others and want to help, not only MAG who are behind the scheme but all the volunteer drivers that are going to make it possible.

“I will be volunteering too but first I want to practice driving the bus passenger free and then I will be ready.”

The bus will take people to Handforth Dean, Wythenshawe hospital, Morrisons, Cheadle and Stockport.

The bus seats 14 people and came equipped with a Tail-Lift for wheelchair or scooter users and has been refurbished through community donations, including large donations from Handforth Dean shopping centre.

There will be designated pick up points via The Paddock, Oakmere car park, Spath Lane and the Lakes estate. There will also be a bus every Sunday to Macclesfield General Hospital to allow Handforth residents to visit friends and relatives who are having treatment.

The group, run by four trustees Rev Steve Burmester, Ros Fox, Beryl Chapman and Lillian Selby hope to hire out the bus during the week to help with running costs.

For more information contact MAG trustee Mrs Beryl Chapman on 01625 525567.