The Wessex Cancer Trust has announced that it will continue to operate the vital Daisy Bus service that transports Isle of Wight cancer patients to Queen Alexandra Hospital in Portsmouth until the end of 2018.
The free minibus link has been under threat due to the charity being unable to fund the service. An appeal was launched late last year in a bid to help raise the £28,000 needed to keep the service running in 2018.
Now, just 3 months on, the appeal has passed the 90% mark and the charity has confirmed they will continue running this free service until the end of 2018. The main donor initially remained anonymous but has now been revealed as Freemasons from across the Island.
An end to this vital service would have seen thousands of residents facing an expensive taxi journey or public transport at an already difficult time.
WBro David G Foot, Assistant Provincial Grand Master of Hampshire and Isle of Wight Freemasons said:
“Freemasons throughout the Isle of Wight have been long term supporters of the Wessex Cancer Trust and in particular of the critical Daisy Bus services. Our members were made aware of the risk of losing this lifeline service and quickly responded with generous donations from all the many Isle of Wight Lodges. We are pleased to provide this relief to ensure the continued operation of the service for Island patients whilst a long term sponsor is secured.”
Sofie Bennett, Head of Fundraising at Wessex Cancer Trust said
“We are overwhelmed at the support received from Freemasons, community groups, business and individuals across the island. Thank you to everyone who has taken time to fund raise or who has made a donation, this is a vital service for so many Isle of Wight residents and we are delighted that we have now secured funding until the end of 2018.’’
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Wessex Cancer Trust is also working closely with Hovertravel to ensure the future sustainability of the service as a long term funding solution still needs to be found. The charity is now asking businesses on the Island who might be able to offer sponsorship to get in touch to discuss opportunities with the charity.
To donate to the appeal visit www.wessexcancer.org.uk/Appeal/help-save-our-portsmouth-transport-service. For more information please on supporting the service please contact [email protected].
