A team of volunteers have been given a lift by trent barton as part of a marathon bus trip to raise money for education projects in Africa.
Family and friends of Heather Stedall, who died of septicaemia at the age of just 30, were travelling from Land’s End to John O’Groats and back again on Britain’s bus network to raise money for the Gifts for Heather appeal.
Richard Stedall (second left) and a travelling companion prepare to board red arrow, watched by Mr Mango.
As a result of the two-week adventure they have raised £5,000 for the appeal that will support an Oxfam school project in Mali. They also aim to donate a further £2,000 to the current famine appeal for East Africa.
As part of the trip they were offered a ride onboard our flagship red arrow service between Chesterfield and Derby and the popular skylink bus from Derby to Leicester. We also made a £100 donation to the appeal.
Richard Stedall, Heather’s brother and leader of the travelling team, explained: “Due to long-term health problems my sister was never able to work or fulfil her dream of going to university but was passionate about education and helping people in the developing world.
“At her funeral, rather than asking for flowers, we suggested people buy an ‘Unwrapped’ gift from Oxfam and since then our Gifts for Heather appeal has grown.”
A lifelong enthusiast of buses and all things transport related, Richard decided that the marathon road trip would be a great way to raise more money for the appeal – whilst also raising the importance of public transport to the communities it serves.
“We were particularly impressed by trent barton and the warm welcome we received on their buses,” he continued. “We are also very grateful for the donation.”
Added Alex Hornby, Commercial Director: “When we heard what Richard was planning we were only too happy to help. His journey proves how important buses are to the national transport system whilst also raising money for two very worthy causes.”
Further information about the charity set up in Heather’s name, and the bus trip, can be found at www.giftsforheather.com.