Minibus donation from Glendoe Estate can be ‘lifeline’ for elderly residents in rural communities

The donation of a new community minibus has been hailed as a potential “lifeline” for elderly residents south of Loch Ness.

Local community groups across the Highlands, including Glenmoriston, Fort Augustus and Invergarry will soon benefit from the use of a new £40,000 minibus, donated by Glendoe Estate of Fort Augustus.

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The 17 seater minibus will be used to transport elderly people into nearby communities, to shopping districts and to local events.

Additionally, it will be used to support the local shinty club, Glengarry SC, in getting to and from its weekend away matches, as well as mid-week junior tournaments.

The new wheels stand to benefit 90 club members who range in age from five years old to 55 years across its senior, women and junior teams.

Jonathan Carslaw, managing director of Glendoe Estate said: “We have been working with 3 Glens Community Care and Glengarry Shinty Club, for a number of months with the aim of bringing the minibus donation to fruition and I’m so pleased we are in the final stages of getting the relevant licenses in place meaning it will be on the road in early 2025.

“We understand the challenges that some of the residents have with the area being particularly rural – especially those who are elderly and therefore rely on taxis, buses and public transport to get into the local communities.

“The hope with the donation of the minibus is that it offers some of our elderly residents a lifeline into the nearby villages and towns so they can come into events, do their shopping and generally be immersed into the local goings on.

“As well as providing a much-needed facility to the local shinty club members, in particular the juniors.

“We hope by facilitating a pickup and drop off service this will encourage more locals to join the club securing its long-term future.”

The local community will be invited to contribute to a shared calendar for the minibus route, with volunteer drivers also being sought to get the minibus on the road.

Beth Stewart, development officer and services co-ordinator at 3 Glens Care, said: "On behalf of the communities of the 3 Glens, we are thrilled to be the shared beneficiaries of a brand new 17-seater minibus.

“This generous donation marks a significant milestone in our mission to provide accessible and inclusive support for all residents.

“This valuable resource will profoundly impact the quality of life for our community members, foster greater independence, and strengthen connections across the region and we would like to sincerely thank Glendoe Estate for their generous donation and their commitment to making a difference.

“Their support exemplifies the true spirit of community and will leave a lasting legacy within 3 Glens Community Care.

“The 3 Glens Community Care will be working on recruiting and training drivers and complying with community transport legislation.

“We anticipate publicising a service schedule in the New Year.

“Together, we are building a more connected, supportive, and inclusive community."

Scott Bremner, chairman of Glengarry Shinty Club, said: “This will transform the development of our junior shinty. We have struggled many times arranging transport for kids to get to competitions.

“Both the senior men and ladies team will benefit hugely as we have many youngsters within both teams that can't yet drive, and are very reliant on parents and friends to get them to games.

“On behalf of everyone at Glengarry shinty club we thank Glendoe Estate massively for this opportunity.”

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