Wheely great fun for the Renegades

The wheels on the bus have not stopped turning since the Renegades and Rascals youth clubs took delivery of their first – but hopefully not last – minibus.

“What a difference having our own transport has made already,” exclaims Group Leader Gareth Miller. “Because of the support of the Community Minibus charity and Thakeham homes, we can now deliver free, fun and creative activities for all the children in the surrounding villages – and fight the age-old problem of rural isolation.

“When we had a problem using Loxwood village hall on a Tuesday night, we were able to scoop up both the Rascals and Renegades and ferry them to Kirdford village hall and that will now be our home on a Tuesday night. On top of our existing members, that means that children in the Kirdford area are now able to easily access what we do – so a real positive has come out of a negative.

“My dream has always been to be able to bring the youth club to where the children actually are, and we are finally managing it. We are now looking to expand into Pulborough, Slinfold and Billingshurst. But we need to raise money for another minibus, its running costs and insurance along with the towbar cameras roof racks and canopies for both. If any local company can support us in any way, we would show our thanks on the bus itself.”

And it wasn’t only the children who had a trip in the new minibus…a selection of reptiles did too. Forget Snakes on a Plane…this was Snakes on a Bus!

Local herpetologist Drew Hicks lent the clubs her snakes and bearded dragon. It is always a huge attraction for the Renegades, but this was the first time that the Rascals got to handle the creatures too…and they loved it!

And talking of Rascals, the Renegades Trustees have agreed that the experiment of creating a club for the younger 7-9 age group has been an incredible success and so will continue to run Mondays, Tuesdays and (with parents staying) Fridays.

The Renegades is a Registered Charity. Membership is free so contact Gareth on 07801 862550 for a taster session.