The HECK! Community Pink Bus helps people in parishes around Kirklington near Bedale stay connected.
Since launching, the bus has supported over 200 people, offering transport to markets, social events, school trips, and scenic drives in the area, especially where where public transport is limited or unavailable.
Peter Wright, known from Channel 5’s The Yorkshire Vet, is a bus ambassador.
He said: “Rural loneliness isn’t just about being alone. It’s about being cut off—physically, emotionally, and socially.
“I’ve seen elderly people who’ve gone days without speaking to another soul.
“This bus helps people reconnect. It brings back dignity and joy.”
Data from the recent North Yorkshire Rural Health and Care Summit shows more than one in five rural residents report feeling frequently lonely, with limited transport being one of the biggest barriers to accessing help and staying socially active.
Volunteers are crucial in keeping the service running, helping people in rural isolation.
Colin Blanchard, a trustee of local charity, The Dales Centre, said: “I have recently booked the bus for two trips and driven our guests around the Dales, visiting wonderful beauty spots such as Richmond and Fountains Abbey.
“The bus not only provides transport, but a real sense of connection with people talking about their own experiences.
“Some people have lived in Masham all their life, never visiting beauty spots within a few miles of them.”
Becky Keeble, HECK!’s community ambassador, said: “We’re really proud of what the pink bus has achieved.
Read more:
“But we need more volunteer drivers to reach more people. Even a couple of hours a month could make a big difference.
“It’s more than a lift, it gives people a sense of belonging.
“We’re all about bringing people together through food and we’re so pleased that this bus is being used successfully to connect people within our community.”
To volunteer as a driver or find out more about the bus scheme email sausages@heckfood.co.uk or call 01845 567 709.
