WESTBURY Air Training Corps is celebrating after being given the gift of a minibus by retirement village Chantry Court.
The newly built retirement village had needed to replace their existing minibus, and rather than trade the old one in decided to donate it to the ATC to benefit the local community. The keys were officially handed over to the ATC at Chantry Court on the morning of Saturday 12th December.
James Cooper, Care Village UK managing director, said, “The concept is putting something back into the community. Where possible we always try and forge links and be active right in the heart of the community. We like to get involved with
“We had changing transport needs and required a minibus with disabled access so we had to replace this van with something more suitable. Rather than trade it in as part of the deal we wanted to put it towards a worthy cause.”
The van will prove useful for the ATC, particularly as when they arrange flying trips they send six cadets at a time, which previously required two cars, and drivers, to make the journey.
Richard Taylor, officer in charge of Westbury ATC, said, “This is absolutely excellent for us. We’re taking six cadets flying today, and using the van so we’re seeing immediate benefits. It’s absolutely brilliant, a God send really. I’d like to say a big thank you to the people at Chantry Court for their generosity.”
Westbury Mayor cllr Sue Ezra, who was there for presentation of the van, said, “I think it’s a wonderful gift for the young people, and very very generous of Chantry Court.”
Pictured above: Westbury ATC Cadets, with (L-R) officer in charge Richard Taylor, mayor cllr Sue Ezra, deputy mayor Christine Mitchell and James Cooper next to the donated minivan.