FARNHAM’S new community bus has received a donation of £1,000 from the Bourne Show, the traditional village summer show which raises money for local causes.

This summer’s Bourne Show takes place on Saturday, July 15, from 12.30pm to 5pm on the Bourne Green, Lower Bourne. The new bus will be making an appearance and members of the hoppa team will be on hand to inform people about how they can use the service.

The contribution meant that the cost of the much-needed bus was completely covered by donations and that hoppa could avoid dipping into funds reserved for unplanned outgoings.

The new vehicle has been in service since the beginning of April and has fast become the preferred bus for the many customers who use the service for shopping, attending medical appointments and social trips.

“When we heard that hoppa needed to buy a new bus for its Farnham service, we wanted to help,” said James Cheyne, chairman of the Bourne Show.

“Hoppa is a prime example of the local good causes that the Bourne Show supports. People from Farnham and nearby rural locations like Lower Bourne are benefiting every day from the new bus. We’re proud that our donation will directly help local people for many years to come.”

Steve Forward, general manager at hoppa, added: “We are extremely thankful to the Bourne Show for supporting us. Our customers – people who live in and around Farnham – rely on us to provide affordable, reliable and accessible transport, often because they are disabled or can no longer drive.

“Hoppa keeps them independent, enables them to take part in community life and to make their essential journeys.

“We’re looking forward to showing off the new bus at this year’s Bourne Show – do come and see us.”

Hoppa embarked on its fundraising campaign a year ago as its Farnham service has seen a significant increase in demand over the past few years and required a new bus to meet the need.

The community bus has also been funded by Farnham Town Council, Waverley Borough Council, Surrey County Council (councillor’s contribution), the Lions Club of Farnham, Farnham Institute Charity, The Hedgehogs, the Bourne Show, digi.me and hoppa customers.