When a Community Comes Together to get a Float Back on the Road

Early August brought an unexpected setback for Sussex Green Living when its iconic electric Eco Float broke down. After a complex recovery, the float was finally towed onto a trailer and taken to The Milk Float Company in nearby Alford, where Len – who has spent his life maintaining and rebuilding milk floats – was able to assess the problem. His prognosis was clear: the Eco Float needed a new control panel and accelerator, at a cost of £1,550.

For a small charity, an unexpected repair bill of this size could have been a major obstacle. But what happened next was a powerful reminder of the value of local community support.

Within just a week, the fundraising appeal had reached its target. The speed and generosity of the response showed just how much the Eco Float means to the people who have encountered it over the years. It is not simply a vehicle that transports equipment from A to B. The Eco Float is the charity’s outside classroom in schools, stand at event and even while driving along it carries the charity’s message loud and clear.

Purchased and retrofitted in 2021 with the help of grants, the 1974 electric milk float was transformed into a unique platform for environmental education and community engagement. Its 36 lead-acid batteries are powered using clean renewable energy, making it a fitting ambassador for the charity’s work to encourage more sustainable choices.

Since its launch, the Eco Float has travelled across Sussex, visiting schools, community events and town-centre activities. It is used as the focal point for educational workshops. It carries environmental displays, practical demonstration materials and everything needed for hands-on activities. More importantly, it creates opportunities to stop, talk and connect.

Until now, the Eco Float had been remarkably reliable. Since its purchase, its main costs have been insurance and an annual service. This was its first major repair – and, fortunately, it came at a time when the community showed just how much it values what the float represents.

Reaching the fundraising target in only a week was about more than raising £1,550. It demonstrated the strength of a community that believes local action matters. Every person who donated helped put the Eco Float back on the road, helping Sussex Green Living fulfil its event commitments – and helped ensure that its message can continue travelling with it.

Carrie Cort, Founder and CEO at Sussex Green Living says “I was mortified when the float broke down and its repair was going to cost so much. However, Len pulled out all stops to get the float repaired in time for us to fulfil our Mid Sussex District Council summer playday commitment in Burgess Hill. A huge thank you from the bottom of my heart goes to the wonderful people who gave a donation to make this possible“.

Because sometimes a milk float can carry much more than equipment. It can carry hope, inspiration and a community’s determination to create a greener future.

By Elisabeth Bautista