Stagecoach’s grand days out scheme in Cumbria, which takes pensioners on days out via bus, has become progressively more popular.
Passenger Anne Kielland was one of 20 pensioners who came to Carlisle from Cockermouth to see the cathedral.
Fellow day-tripper Anne Kielland said the excursions offer something to look forward to: “Some days I can’t even get out of bed with my mobility and with my pain.
“I geared myself up to come out because it’s a lot of planning: painkillers and whatever, but we’re excited because someone’s taken an interest in our age group.”
The trip proved to be a chance to relax under the stars with friends thanks to the specially curated excursion from Cockermouth.
It was the ninth such ‘grand day out’ organised by Stagecoach Cumbria and North Lancashire, aimed at getting older people to make use of their free bus passes – especially following Covid – and taking the opportunity to make friends and explore new places.
It is supported by Age UK and businesses across the county, combining bus travel with unique experiences.
Ali Desovska, community worker for Age UK West Cumbria, said: “The feedback from those who take part is always excellent.
“As soon as we’ve enjoyed one grand day out, they all want to know when the next one is and where we’re going next.”
