Comedian Arthur Smith launches new minibus fleet at Chigwell disabled respite centre
Arthur Smith with Jubilee Lodge manager Paul Picton and Vitalise service users Anne and Larry
Lizzie Dearden, Reporter
Saturday, March 16, 2013
8:30 AM
Comedian, writer and radio presenter Arthur Smith launched a fleet of new minibuses at a Chigwell respite-care centre last week.
The Radio 4 presenter, of Grumpy Old Men fame, is vice-president of charity Vitalise, which provides breaks, respite care and holidays for people with disabilites and their carers.
The three new minibuses were given to its centre Jubilee Lodge at Grange Farm in High Road.
Nine in total were bought with money raised by a fundraising event with Samantha Cameron and donations from Barclays bank.
Jubilee Lodge manager Paul Picton said the buses would give staff “more flexibility than ever” to take guests out on trips.
The charity is gradually refurbishing 50 of its rooms to mark its golden anniversary later this year.
Arthur said: “I remember when I was 50 – well just – and I know what an important milestone it is.
“So I was really happy to have been invited to welcome the new fleet of minibuses and help launch Vitalise’s ‘Raise a Room’ campaign.”
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