ExxonMobil sets wheels in motion with  local transportation boost

The contribution will go to Community First, a charity dedicated to providing essential support services, including transport, mobility, and community facilities, to enhance the well-being of local residents.

The funding will enable two minibuses to serve the communities of Fawley Parish Council and Hythe Parish Council.

This initiative from the Petrochemical Complex aims to address the growing demand for minibus services, addressing well-known challenges with transport access in the local area.

The minibuses will be available for hire 24/7 for educational institutions, curriculum activities, and residential trips. They will also provide much-needed support for charities, elderly care facilities, and health services, including hospital visits, covering around 7,000 miles annually.

Each minibus will be adorned in striking red, white, and blue livery, with one featuring the Fawley Parish Council logo and the other displaying the Hythe and Dibden Parish Council logo.

Tim Houghton, Chief Executive Officer at Community First, said: "We are incredibly grateful to ExxonMobil Fawley for this generous £30,000 donation. It will make a real difference to the community, ensuring even more people can access affordable minibus transport.

With over 5,300 residents and 280 community groups using our transport services each year, this support means we can provide even more affordable and accessible services across the Waterside area and wider New Forest, reducing isolation and keeping people socially connected.  This contribution is a fantastic example of how business and charity can work together to make a positive impact on the community.”

Nick Bone, Fawley Site Manager, said: "By funding these two minibuses we are helping to provide essential transport services that enhance mobility and access in the Waterside area.

“We were advised of a huge demand for minibus services, not just among residents but also from local schools that require additional transport for trips, pastoral care, and SEN initiatives. We are pleased to provide these minibuses and hope they will continue to benefit the community for a long time.”

Bookings are managed by Community First’s New Forest office, which can be contacted on 01425 482773 or at nftransport@cfirst.org.uk.