Funding boost for Council Chairman's chosen charity

Joan’s Buses, a non-profit travel company, based in Market Harborough and managed by Jill Mann and Sandra Ward, started 20 years ago to provide local people with travel opportunities and donate funds to local charity groups. The firm, which operates coach tours for local residents, organises monthly outings between April and October each year to places of interest across the UK, including stately homes, coastal towns and national garden shows, with all profits going to charity.

Jill Mann of Joan’s Buses was present to see the cheques presented to the two charities, she said: “It is a great joy to see the money go to good causes in the local community. We wish to thank all the customers of Joan’s Buses whose generous giving makes our work possible.”

Further funds from donations made during Cllr Johnson’s Civic Carol Service, which took place at St Dionysius Church in Market Harborough on 11 December 2019 featuring music items from local groups including a school choir and ukulele band, were divided between the Church, LOROS and Spectrum.

Commenting on the presentation of £1,000 to Spectrum, Cllr Johnson, said: “I am very pleased to have been asked to present my charity, Spectrum with this amazing donation from Joan’s Buses. I know the money will be put to good use. This charity works very hard in the community, and is always looking for ways in which its services can be extended.”

“The charity’s services presently include regular meetings and support for carers and parents, organising professional help, events and generally raising awareness in many ways to enable a better quality of life for those with autism and parents/carers alike.”

Receiving the funds, Joy Hanlon of Spectrum, said: “We’re delighted to receive a cheque for £1,000 for the charity. This donation will enable us to provide greater support for our families. We are sincerely grateful to the organisers and patrons of Joan’s Buses, and to Cllr Johnson for bringing us together.”

For more information about Joan’s Buses, and its upcoming organised events, visit the LOROS Shop in Coventry Road, Market Harborough to collect a leaflet. Anyone wishing to support charity, Spectrum, can contact Joy Hanlon at spectrumautismgroup@yahoo.com

Charitable Giving: [Left to right] Councillor Barbara Johnson, Chairman of Harborough District Council; Joy Hanlon of Spectrum; Jill Mann of Joan’s Buses; Sheila Watson of the LOROS Shop, Market Harborough.