Mountbatten Isle of Wight is delighted to be rolling-out a brand new adaptive vehicle, supplied by Island charity, the Tennyson Memorial Ambulance Trust.

The shiny new VW Caddy also sports an historic registration number — one that has been used since 1966.

It might have historic links but this is a state-of-the-art new van, which offers more space for wheelchair users, a jump seat for a friend or Mountbatten volunteer, lots more room and a smooth and comfortable ride.

Can you help support the Tennyson Memorial Ambulance Trust or Mountbatten? Scroll down to find out how...

Behind the wheel are Mountbatten’s team of volunteer drivers, who give their time to transport patients and their families and friends to where they need to be.

While some volunteers use their own cars, that option is not suitable for everyone who needs the service.

This new addition bolsters Mountbatten’s fleet of three wheelchair-friendly vehicles. It is the charity’s most spacious and up-to-date and has already made a huge difference to the comfort and experience of the patients who have used it.

Its ‘VDL1’ registration has been used by the Tennyson Trust — swapped from vehicle to vehicle —  over the decades. And while the size and model of vehicles has changed, the use of the same registration plate has ensured a link spanning nearly 50 years.

Above: Tennyson Memorial Ambulance Trust chairman, Les Osman, left, hands the keys to Mountbatten volunteer driver, Bob Pascoe

Mountbatten CEO, Nigel Hartley, said: “Mountbatten Isle of Wight is hugely grateful to the Tennyson Memorial Ambulance Trust. 

“This brand new accessible vehicle ensures our patients can travel around the Island and reach crucial appointments in comfort.

“Our expert 24/7 hospice and at-home care is two thirds funded by the public, through donations and grants.

“With Mountbatten’s NHS contribution failing to rise in line with inflation, our charity is having to rely on increased community support.

“The Tennyson Memorial Ambulance Trust’s amazing donation is incredibly appreciated. Thank you!”

Mountbatten Isle of Wight’s Suze Jackson, who oversees the transport fleet, said: “We are so grateful to the Tennyson Memorial Ambulance Trust.

“This amazing new adaptive vehicle enables us to provide more journeys and reach people who are socially isolated. It also supports our Isle of Wight hospice’s inpatient unit with admissions and discharges.”

Les Osman, chairman of the Tennyson Memorial Ambulance Trust, said: “I am pleased the Trust is able to support the valuable work of Mountbatten.

“This adaptive vehicle continues an association with Mountbatten that has so far lasted nearly 30 years.”

Tennyson Memorial Ambulance Trust and Mountbatten Isle of Wight need YOU!

Can you help support the Tennyson Memorial Ambulance Trust? It is keen to recruit new trustees. Meanwhile, Mountbatten is seeking new volunteers to help drive its vehicles.

If you think you can help either charity, email [email protected]