We are delighted that one of our Dorchester Transport Action Group members, Sally Falkingham from Maiden Newton, has been named as one of only 4 “Better Transport Heroes” from across the whole of England, recognised by the Campaign for Better Transport as part of its 50th birthday celebrations in June 2024.
The selection process was rigorous with no fewer than three interviews following her nomination by our neighbouring transport action group based in Bridport. Sally was recognised for her outstanding work over many years in and around Maiden Newton, fighting to retain local buses, working with providers to find alternative solutions when bus services were withdrawn and working with Great Western Railway to improve local rail services.
Sally has used her vast range of contacts to work with both transport providers and other stakeholders to ensure that the provision of public transport meets the needs of the community for access to work, education, leisure activity and to minimise the isolation and loneliness felt by many who do not have access to a car.
Despite her advancing years and increasing mobility issues, Sally uses the local buses and trains several times each week. She puts her determination down to her early training as a walker. “During World War 2 I had to walk to school from when I was 5 years old, a 3 mile round trip. I have never lost my love of walking even though I now have to use a walking aid.”
Stewart Palmer, Chair of Dorchester Transport Action Group said “Sally is a role model and example to us all and we are so pleased that all her hard work over many years has been recognised in this very public way.”