Kate Middleton travels to West Sussex without Prince William

Kate Middleton on Wednesday visited West Sussex Minibus, a volunteer-led community transport organization in Pulborough, England, that helps people stay connected and combat social isolation.

Before she undertook the engagement, Kensington Palace announced her upcoming visit to the West Sussex in an Instagram Story on the official account of the Prince and Princess of Wales.

The Princess of Wales got a firsthand look at the service by hopping aboard one of the organization’s 11 minibuses and joining volunteers as they picked up passengers from their homes.

The Princess of Wales helped pick up 94-year-old Stella Drewett, who was unfazed by her royal meeting.

During the journey, Princess Kate heard how the service provides a vital connection for people who might otherwise struggle to get out and about, particularly those facing mobility challenges or limited access to public transportation.

Celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, West Sussex Minibus has grown from humble beginnings with just one volunteer and a single minibus into a community lifeline. 

Today, the organization operates eight village hubs, supported by 284 volunteers and a fleet of 11 minibuses that travel approximately 60,000 miles and provide around 13,000 journeys each year.