Bus charity helps Twyford St Mary's school reach fireworks

The event took place on Monday, November 4, with many of the attendees coming on a preserved Leyland Panther bus.

The 53-year-old transport was provided by the Winchester-based charity the Friends of King Alfred Buses (FoKAB) and staffed by volunteers, who ran a free shuttle service between Colden Common and Twyford, also serving Northfields.

Suzanne Day, PTA secretary and vice chair, said: “FoKAB did an outstanding job. They successfully transported over 200 people for the event, helping us to ensure that we covered costs and raised money for the school.”

Many families enjoyed riding the preserved bus (Image: Thomas and Rebeca Gilbert) READ MORE: The 35 best photos from the 2024 Winchester Fireworks

@hampshire_chronicle Twyford residents went to their bonfire night in a unique ride - a 1970s bus! #fireworks #bonfirenight #hampshirechronicle #winchester #twyford #FriendsofKingAlfredBuses ♬ golden hour - main character melodies

Headteacher Neil Tunnicliffe expressed his gratitude: “Thanks to Becky, Suzanne, Hannah and Matt Riley and his fireworks team, for putting on such a tremendous event and creating lasting memories for local families. The PTA are a highly valued source of support, making a significant difference to our provision through the funds they raise and the time they devote.”

PTA Chair Becky French, added: “Running a community event of this scale is a huge team effort. Thanks go to everyone involved.”

FoKAB’s chair James Freeman said: “We love using our buses to carry people for these sorts of events. It’s just what they’re designed for.

“Anybody who’d like a longer ride is welcome to come along to Winchester Broadway on New Year’s Day when a variety of old King Alfred buses will be giving free rides as they do every year!”