Rhubarb Farm, a social enterprise based at Langwith, is aiming to raise funds to buy a much-needed minibus to transport its volunteers, many with complex and multiple needs, to and from the farm.

The farm is using the Chuffed crowdfunding platform for the first time for its £11,000 appeal to buy and run the minibus, which the volunteers have already nicknamed the veggie bus.

As most volunteers live in rural areas across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire, the minibus is vital for them to get to the farm to complete their horticultural training.

Jennie Street, managing director of the farm, said: “Our volunteers gain employability skills and increased self-confidence, as well as improving their health and wellbeing while at the farm.

“We have never used crowdfunding before and so it is imperative that we can reach out to as many people as possible to ask for help to reach our target.

“Even the smallest donations will help and everyone has the chance to claim one of the great perks we have created for donors.”

Rhubarb Farm has an ethic of giving to receive, which is why it has created a range of perks for donors to choose from when they pledge support to the campaign.

Perks include receiving a hand-painted stone ladybird, naming the farm tractor after someone, special days out on the farm for groups of friends or business associates, having a month’s supply of fresh organic vegetables, or naming one of the farm’s chickens after a friend, colleague or celebrity.

The ultimate perk is aimed at businesses, whereby they can become official sponsors and have their company logo on the side of the minibus.

To pledge support for the crowdfunding appeal, visit www.chuffed.org/project/RF and make a donation. For donors who want to remain anonymous or cannot receive the delivered bag of vegetables, there is the option of donating the perk to a local good cause.