Celebrating Stuart: Nearly 10 Years of Volunteering and a Very Happy 80th Birthday!

This month, we’re celebrating our wonderful volunteer driver Stuart, who is retiring from driving after ten years with Transport 17.

Stuart has made a huge contribution over the years, helping countless passengers get out of the house, meet friends and enjoy their lunch clubs. As he also celebrates his 80th birthday, we caught up with him to look back on his time with us.

How long have you volunteered with Transport 17, and what inspired you to get involved?

After many years running my own chartered surveying practice, I suddenly found myself with a considerable amount of spare time when I sold the business.

I spotted an article about Transport 17 in a local magazine. Having driven a motorhome, I thought volunteering as a minibus driver would be a good way to use my experience and free time. That was ten years ago, and it gave me a new sense of purpose while benefiting others.

What is your favourite memory from your time as a driver?

I don’t think I could choose just one. The whole experience has been exhilarating, and I have many fond memories of the friendships formed with passengers and the dedicated volunteers who turn up whenever they are needed.

What have you enjoyed most about being a volunteer driver?

Knowing that my efforts have helped passengers spend time with friends they might not otherwise be able to see. Without Transport 17 and its volunteer drivers, many passengers simply wouldn’t be able to attend their lunch clubs.

Is there a passenger or moment that has particularly stayed with you?

It wouldn’t feel right to single out one passenger. They all have their own personalities, and I’ve enjoyed plenty of friendly banter with them over the years. Treating every passenger with care and respect has always been paramount.

There have certainly been some memorable journeys, including occasions when we needed to call the emergency services because a passenger had become unwell or had fallen. There was also the day our oldest bus suffered a dramatic breakdown while I was taking passengers home! Thankfully, the office was staffed, a replacement bus was arranged and everyone got home safely.

What makes Transport 17 so special?

Transport 17 is an independent organisation that works closely with local lunch clubs. It enables friendships and understanding to grow while helping people remain part of their community.

After the COVID restrictions, some passengers returned with significantly reduced mobility. Without Transport 17, many would rarely leave their homes or see another person. I’m proud to have played a small part in helping them regain their confidence and independence.

How has volunteering enriched your life?

I’ve been able to spend time with our passengers, contribute to their wellbeing and share in their enjoyment. Some are even younger than I am! It has been very rewarding to know that I’ve made a difference.

What kept you motivated to volunteer at 80?

The dedication of my fellow volunteers. Being part of such a committed team motivated me to continue supporting them and our passengers.

What would you say to someone considering becoming a volunteer driver?

Don’t hesitate! The enjoyment you’ll experience and the appreciation of the people you support are incredibly rewarding. Go for it!

What are your plans now that you’re retiring from driving?

My plans are a little limited because of my health, but my wife and I recently celebrated our 58th wedding anniversary. We’re looking forward to enjoying more time together and continuing to share our interests.

How would you like everyone at Transport 17 to remember you?

I hope I’ll be remembered as a friendly and accommodating volunteer driver who always went the extra mile for everyone at Transport17.

Thank You so so much, Stuart x

From all of us at Transport 17, we’d like to say an enormous thank you to Stuart for ten years of friendship, commitment and outstanding service.

You have made a genuine difference to the lives of so many passengers, and we will miss having you behind the wheel.

We wish you a very happy 80th birthday, a long and happy retirement, and many more wonderful years with your wife and family.