Archdeacon Rich Henderson attended Beccles Parish last week to bless a brand new minibus.
The purchase of the new bus is the result of a great partnership with £17k in donations from individuals, the Beccles Townlands Trust, Beccles Lions and the National Lottery. The minibus plays a vital role in the missions and ministry of the parish, by helping to make worship accessible and collecting individuals for their weekly lunch club and more.
The Revd Canon Ron Tuck, who has been the main driver behind the project, said, "When our old minibus came to the end of its useful life last year, there was no question about the need for a replacement. The grant giving bodies insisted on it being a new vehicle, so raising funds became a major effort, ably managed by Mr John Bailey. I am extremely pleased with our new minibus and very thankful for the grants and gifts from individuals of over £17,000, which have made it possible."
The Revd Dimitri Theulings, Rector of Beccles with Worlingham, North Cove and Barnby, said, "We are delighted to have been able to raise the funds for our new minibus and are extremely grateful to all who have contributed. This new minibus will be a significant blessing to our parish and will not only allow us to continue to bring those with mobility problems to our church services, but importantly, will also serve our outreach activities across Beccles and the villages, such as our Lunch Club and Afternoon Fellowship."