A charity-backed transport service helping Isle of Wight cancer patients travel to vital hospital appointments has welcomed a brand-new bus, thanks to the generosity of Islanders who have raised thousands of pounds to keep the service running.
Daisy Ring Bus CIC, which provides free transport for cancer patients travelling to hospitals in Southampton and Portsmouth, is celebrating the arrival of its new vehicle as it enters its 2nd year of operation.
The organisation was formed in 2025 when the future of the much-loved Daisy Bus service was under threat, with volunteers and supporters stepping in to ensure patients could continue accessing essential treatment.
Today, the service provides around 2,000 passenger journeys every month, with volunteer drivers helping Islanders travel to and from hospital appointments throughout the working week.
The new bus has been made possible through community fundraising, donations and the efforts of volunteers, with Islanders raising money through coffee mornings, quizzes, raffles, marathons and even abseiling down the Spinnaker Tower.
Michèle Le Quesne Newton, Chair of Daisy Ring Bus CIC, has said:
“We are absolutely delighted to welcome our wonderful new Daisy Ring Bus. It’s a very special moment for everyone involved, but it’s about so much more than a new vehicle.
“It’s about the kindness of our Island community, the dedication of our volunteers and making sure people facing cancer can get to their treatment with the support and reassurance they deserve.
Article continues below this advertisement “On behalf of Daisy Ring Bus CIC, I want to say a huge and heartfelt thank you to everyone who has helped make this possible.
“Whether you’ve donated, raised funds, volunteered or simply supported us along the way, you’ve made a real difference. We couldn’t do this without you, and we’re incredibly grateful.”
Among those making a significant contribution is Phoenix Pre-Loved Store at Gurnard Pines, near Cowes, which had raised an impressive £31,000 for Daisy Ring by August 2026.
The store, run with the support of dedicated volunteers, raises money through the sale of donated clothing, homewares and other pre-loved items.
Daisy Ring has paid particular tribute to the team behind the shop, whose fundraising efforts have helped support the service and contribute towards its future.
As a lasting thank you, the names of individuals and organisations who contributed towards the new bus will be displayed on a special decal on the vehicle, recognising donations of all sizes.
Beyond providing transport, Daisy Ring says the service also offers companionship and reassurance to patients who may be facing difficult and worrying journeys.
Volunteer drivers play a central role, helping passengers feel comfortable and supported, while friendships and conversations often develop between those travelling together.
Despite the arrival of the new bus, fundraising remains essential to keeping the service operating.
Daisy Ring runs every weekday, with ongoing costs including fuel, insurance, servicing and maintenance.
The organisation is also already saving towards the purchase of another new vehicle to help secure the service’s future.
Anyone wishing to support Daisy Ring Bus CIC, become a volunteer driver or find out more about the service can visit www.daisyringbus.org or email [email protected].
