Work has started on Big Yellow Bus Project for homeless in Cirencester

Gerry Watkins, 54, launched the project in June last year, when he came up with the idea of sheltering the homeless during the winter months.

Since then, he has raised enough money to purchase a £3,000 bus through fundraising gigs across the region.

Gerry’s big yellow bus is currently being refurbished. The seats have been removed, and bed compartments have been fitted for timber-framed bunk beds.

Gerry said: “There’s be a lot happening and it’s been very busy. I have raised the money to buy most of the materials by doing events.

“I also have got a nice new gas hob and sink unit which is yet to be fitted. The company I work for Moreton C Cullimore has donated a new wood burning stove.

“It’s all coming together nicely now there’s still a lot more to do like finish off all the beds upstairs and get it ready for the fire retardant paint.”

The beds will be treated with fire retardant paint, and mattresses are provided by the Royal Agricultural University.

Curtains made of a fire retardant material, provided by a local resident, will also be fitted.

All the work carried out in the project will be checked by the relevant authority and any homeless person using the bus must be signed up to a rehabilitation course.

Gerry also hopes to set up training courses to help the homeless get back into work.

The Big Yellow Bus Project is hoping that more businesses and organisations can support its cause so that more buses can be provided for other areas around Wiltshire and Gloucestershire.

To find out more or to donate, go to the project’s Facebook page or contact Gerry on 07808030220 The next fundraising events are:

• a family bingo at Cirencester Football Club on February 2
• live bands playing at the Swiss Chalet in Swindon on February 24
• a ladies night at the Royal Agricultural University on March 3
• Secret Affair playing at the Royal Agricultural University on March 17