A GENEROUS donation has given elderly residents in a rural village a transport lifeline.

Maelor Foods have stepped forward to support the Rainbow Centre in Penley to run one of its mini buses which directly supports older people to access it’s Day Opportunities Service (day care) at the centre, attend weekly shopping trips, access Penley’s Lunch Club held fortnightly and to attend monthly Social Outings further afield.

Caroline Tudor-James at the Rainbow Centre said: "Clients tell us that our mini bus service is a real lifeline. We know that transport is a issue for many elderly in our area so we are very grateful for support from Maelor Foods to keep our bus on the road.

"Loneliness is harmful to health, it can increase the onset of dementia, raise blood pressure and cause depression. And as the older population grows, the number of individuals experiencing loneliness is increasing.

"The benefits of accessing places like the Rainbow Centre are well documented for improving physical health, mental health and well-being. But without accessible transport many elderly are left alone. So that’s why support from Maelor Foods is so appreciated."

One client, Audrey Digby, age 86, said: "Living alone the silence is so hard. Since I lost my sight I can no longer read a book or watch tv, so the bus is a real lifeline for me."

Doug Wellington of Maelor Foods, added: "It’s a real privilege to be supporting such a fantastic local charity to help them to tackle rural isolation and enable the local community to come together.

"We are looking forward to working with the Rainbow Centre to keep their bus on the road."

If you would like to know more about the Rainbow Centre and any of its services please telephone 01948830730. Email info@rainbowcentrepenley.org.uk Website: www.rainbowcentrepenley.org.uk