I am the organiser of Easton Community Cupboard, our village's essential community food provision. Every day, I witness firsthand how crucial the bus service is to our community. The recent announcement by First that the Excel bus service will be discontinued in Easton has sent waves of concern throughout our village. For many, this bus is not just a means of transport but a lifeline. Our neighbors who cannot drive, disabled residents who would struggle to walk the unsafe road to Longwater across roundabouts with no path and overgrown trees, parents who rely on the bus for their children's commute, and older people who risk being stranded all came to me, apprehensive about what lies ahead. Personally, I have several disabilities that limit my mobility and rely on the bus service when my husband is unavailable with our car. Without a reliable and frequent bus service, I would be isolated and unable to continue the community work I do, not just for Easton but for our neighbours in Queen's Hill, Costessey, Bowthorpe and Marlingford.

Easton is a community in transition. With hundreds of new homes springing up, our population is growing rapidly. It is imperative that we retain our direct connection to Norwich. Removing the roundabout without maintaining a direct and reliable bus service would effectively isolate our community, severely impacting the quality of life for many.

The solution lies in ensuring a commitment to a continued bus service even after the changes are made. This is not just about convenience; it is about ensuring access to essential services. A direct service between Easton and Norwich will keep our community connected, support our local businesses, and sustain the vibrant culture of our village.

We urge local authorities and First to address this pressing issue. We need assurances of a continuity plan for public transport that supports Easton's residents. By signing this petition, you are supporting a future where everyone in our community remains connected and no one is left behind. Ensure the future of Easton's connectivity by adding your signature to this cause. Let's stand together for a better tomorrow.