Open Country, a Wakefield charity dedicated to supporting people with disabilities to access and enjoy the countryside, has proudly unveiled its new accessible minibus, named in tribute to a much-loved volunteer.
A special ribbon-cutting ceremony for the bus – called Rambling Richard – was held at Pugney’s Country Park, near Wakefield, attended by supporters, members, volunteers and staff. Specially invited to the event was Diane Lucas, the widow of Richard Lucas, a popular volunteer with Open Country who sadly died in 2024 as the result of a tragic accident whilst walking Scafell Pike in the Lake District.
Richard, who lived in Mirfield, was a dedicated and much-loved volunteer with Open Country’s Wakefield hub for several years, and members voted to name the bus in his memory. Diane cut the ribbon to officially launch the bus, assisted by her children Sarah and Andrew.
The new minibus has been designed with full accessibility in mind, with movable seating, space to store wheelchairs, handrails and a rear lift for easier boarding. It was purchased thanks to generous donations from a range of funders and organisations including; Sovereign Healthcare, Greenhall, Garfield Weston Foundation. The Neighbourhood Postcode Lottery, Live Well Wakefield, and Coca Cola.
Chief Officer at Open Country David Shaftoe commented: “This new minibus will significantly improve the travel experience for our Wakefield members, ensuring smooth, comfortable and safe accessible transport for years to come We are very grateful to the organisations and trusts who have helped us to purchase it. Your generous support will ensure miles more smiles and special memories made for our members.”
Diane said: “Richard loved being outdoors and was never happier then when walking in the hills and exploring new places. Thanks to his friends at Open Country his memory will live on, and ‘Rambling Richard’ will always travel with them. Our family thank you and wish you all safe adventures.”
Open Country, which also has a hub in Harrogate, offers daily nature and countryside-based activities for people with a range of disabilities. These include walking groups, a tandem club, accessible outings and conservation/access work parties across the Wakefield district.
The charity also creates free resources to help the wider community to enjoy and access the countryside.
- Open Country Wakefield is currently seeking more volunteers to help support its conservation and nature activities on Tuesdays and Fridays. Meeting at Thornes Park, Wakefield, the groups run from 10am until around 4pm. Volunteers don’t need experience, just reasonable fitness levels, and a caring, friendly nature. To find out more E: Wakefield@opencountry.org.uk or T: 01423 507227.
For more information on Open Country’s work and initiatives, please visit www.open-country.org.uk
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