TWO community groups in Cumbria have been awarded funding to buy new minibuses to help keep people on the move.

Appleby Heritage Centre and Bendrigg Trust, at Old Hutton, are among forty disability, patient, children and school groups across England who will get a new vehicle after winning part of £2 million Government grant.

The minibuses, which will have up to 16 seats, will improve the lives of people in rural areas by providing crucial links to shops, social events and medical services.

Transport Minister Andrew Jones said: “Community transport is vital for people in rural areas, helping them reach shops, hospital appointments, loved ones, friends, jobs and education.

“We have so far provided 300 minibuses in the first round of the £25 million Community Minibus Fund and they are already improving the lives of people up and down the country.

“These two extra minibuses for Cumbrian groups will give a further boost and make sure the public can access the places and services they want.”