A SERVICE that helps elderly people get out and about has made a Christmas appeal for volunteer drivers.

Pershore Volunteer Centre, a registered charity, provides a Community Transport Service ensuring people who don't use public transport as they struggle to walk to a bus, and have no access to a car, have access to transport to keep them mobile and not cut off.

Donna King, transport and office manager at Pershore Volunteer Centre, said: “We’re well aware of the difficulties many people face in getting to hospital appointments so we’re delighted that our community transport scheme is part of this project, funded by the Department for Transport.”

Registration is free for the Community Transport Scheme and each trip is charged individually at an affordable rate based on mileage.

All people needing the service need to do is register and always give a minimum of 48 hours’ notice in which to contact a local driver.

Pershore Volunteer Centre is part of Community Transport Connections, specifically providing transport for residents who meet their eligibility criteria and need to, for example, get to Worcestershire Royal Hospital or the Alexandra Hospital in Redditch.

The service currently has more than 30 volunteer drivers but the service has 600 people registered and growing. As those registered are entitled to use the service twice a week, it is now in desperate need of more volunteer drivers to sign up so that it can meet their needs.

Mrs King added: "This Christmas make a gift of your time to help elderly people to attend medical appointments and, equally importantly, to remain engaged with their local community and friends. You can make a real difference to help to prevent social isolation and loneliness. Thank you."

Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer drive can do so by calling 01386 554299, or email admin@pershorevolunteers.org.uk. Alternatively visit the Billing House, Pershore office between 10am and 4pm, Monday to Thursday or 10am to noon on Friday. To register to use the Community Transport Scheme also call 01386 554299.