Princess of Wales surprises elderly minibus passengers as she joins volunteer community group

Published: 07:05 EDT, 30 September 2026 | Updated: 07:13 EDT, 30 September 2026 The Princess of Wales surprised elderly passengers in Sussex this morning as she joined a volunteer-run community transport association.Catherine arrived in picturesque Pulborough to join the team at the West Sussex Minibus, which acts as a vital lifeline for people who cannot easily access public transport due to isolation, mobility issues or financial hardship.She is keen to highlight the role that community transport plays in bringing people together, reducing isolation and enabling the everyday acts of kindness that make volunteers the unsung heroes of many communities.It follows on from her visit yesterday with Prince William to Yorkshire where they surprised Sir Kevin Sinfield midway through his latest endurance challenge to raise money for organisations supporting those suffering from Motor Neurone Disease.West Sussex Minibus, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, is staffed entirely by volunteers and supports people living in rural areas of the county.It was established as a response to the decline of local public transport and is designed to help OAPs continue to enjoy independence, social connection and quality of life. The Princess of Wales joins the West Sussex Minibus team in Pulborough this morning Catherine's visit is to highlight the role community transport plays in bringing people togetherIt has grown from a single minibus into a fleet of 11, operating from eight village hubs and supported by 284 volunteers.The fleet travels around 60,000 miles each year and provides 13,000 passenger journeys.The princess began her visit by travelling on one of the minibus's pick-up journeys and will help passengers from their homes onto the vehicle.On the bus she will hear about how the service is a lifeline for many isolated people in the community and helps them remain independent and active.The visit will conclude at Pulborough Village Hall, where a weekly lunch club is held, providing a welcoming space for people to come together for activities and conversation.The princess will meet attendees and talk to them about their experiences, as well as spending time with the minibus service volunteers whose dedication makes it possible.