Stagecoach East Midlands partnered with Age UK Nottingham and Nottinghamshire to welcome 22 individuals aged over-60 for the first of the operator’s “Grand Day Out” events for 2025.
Last week, the participants took the Stagecoach bus from Woodthorpe to the Sherwood Observatory in Sutton-in-Ashfield.
The passengers enjoyed a guided tour of the observatory, a show in the Planetarium, a view of the large telescope on site and lunch.
Matt Cranwell, Managing Director of Stagecoach East Midlands, says: “Since the launch of Grand Days Out, it has become a rewarding staple in our operations and is a fantastic opportunity to not only provide a fun and memorable day for our participants but also to address important issues like loneliness and isolation.
“It demonstrates how public transport can bring people together and positively impact their lives. We’re thrilled to see its success.”
Stagecoach says the event, which continues earlier work via the initiative across its nationwide network, highlights its commitment to improving the wellbeing of older people by combating isolation.
Elaine Hopkins, Community Fundraiser at Age UK Notts, adds: “Age UK Nottingham and Nottinghamshire always strives to ensure older people live the best life they can and partnerships such as this with Stagecoach can only enhance those experiences by helping people to combat social isolation, have fun and make memories.
“Everyone enjoyed this lovely day of friendship, company and interest. It was a real treat and the Stagecoach staff looked after us very well.”
