Stagecoach East Midlands deliver an unforgettable Grand Day Out

• Working with Age UK Notts, Stagecoach East Midlands bussed 22 service users to Sherwood Observatory in Sutton-in-Ashfield
• Whilst there, the group took in an astronomy exhibition on the history of space exploration and a planetarium show on the imagery of the planets of the solar system.
• This was the 1^st of a year of events, with more Grand Days Out to follow.

Stagecoach, the UK’s leading bus operator, partnered with Age UK Notts, to host a ‘Grand Day Out’, bringing together 22 individuals aged 60 plus, for a day filled with connection, exploration, and enjoyment.

Last week, participants embarked on their journey via a Stagecoach bus from The Church of the Good Sheppard in Woodthorpe, to The Sherwood Observatory in Sutton-in-Ashfield. The day’s itinerary featured an engaging guided tour of the observatory, a show in the Planetarium, a view of the large telescope on site, and a delicious lunch to add to the day’s celebrations, leaving attendees with memories to last a lifetime.

Reflecting on the event, Managing Director of Stagecoach East Midlands Matt Cranwell said:

“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.”

Elaine Hopkins, Community Fundraiser at Age UK Notts said:

“Age UK Nottingham & 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”

Mark Lander, one of the Age UK Notts Volunteers, also reflected on the day, saying,

“Our Age UK Notts walks bring attendees out of isolation, builds confidence and networks of friendship, and events like this just give the group something really exciting and different to look forward to."

He went on to commend the seamless organisation of the event, adding,

“Today has been a lovely example of doing something different, and something probably all of us wouldn’t think of doing as it’s not as simple for us to get everyone out to this location. It was a lovely day had by all.”

Participants also highlighted the convenience of their over-60s bus pass, noting, "It's so much easier to use a bus pass. You don’t have to worry about parking, and it’s free — you can’t go wrong!”

This scheme underscores Stagecoach’s commitment to improving the wellbeing of older people by fostering connection, combatting isolation, and promoting health and happiness. Through events like The Grand Days Out initiative, Stagecoach East Midlands and Age UK’s local brand partners, continue to strengthen community bonds and demonstrate the vital role public transport can play in enriching lives.