THE wheels are rolling at Eastleigh on four new 15-seater wheelchair-friendly community buses.

It is all thanks to a £169,680 boost from Hampshire County Council.

The windfall has helped One Community, formerly known as Eastleigh Community Services, to buy the new minibuses.

They will replace a number of minibuses which provide transport for a wide range of local community organisations.

County Councillor Colin Davidovitz, pictured right, officially launched the new minibuses at Fleming Park Golf Course, on behalf of executive member for environment Councillor Mel Kendal, along with representatives from Hampshire County Council and One Community.

Cllr Kendal said: "The county council recognises the important role community transport schemes can play in meeting the transport needs of people locally and this partnership initiative is a great example of the local authorities helping to fund a local transport scheme."

Ken Dufton, chief executive of One Community, said: " These new minibuses have regenerated our fleet, replacing the older vehicles. As awareness of the scheme grows, we want to keep pace with demand, delivering a high quality standard of service."

These minibuses can be hired out to voluntary and community groups.

For more information contact One Community on 023 8090 2400.