Wear Valley Mercury

Sunday, May 18, 2008

Volunteer drivers needed

VOLUNTEER drivers are needed to transport groups and societies around Wear Valley.

There are two Weardale Community Transport buses operating from the Weardale Hub in Stanhope, but more drivers are needed to ferry groups from senior citizens to small children to their various destinations.

Trevor Hodgson, a retired fire fighter turned driver said: “There is no question that the buses provide a social benefit let alone financial benefit to people in Wear Valley. They are much cheaper for people to use than regular transport, and provide a means for people who may have difficulty getting around to get out and about.

“We are not a profit-driven organisation, but obviously need to cover our costs. We are not in competition with commercial transport businesses, but we offer a different service to taxis and buses.

“We definitely need more volunteers to drive, and there are benefits to taking part. We provide Midas accredited training, which is not only an extra driving qualification but also it can also mean cheaper insurance.

“The only restrictions are that people have to be aged between 21 and 75, and a bit of experience is always welcomed.

For more information contact Trevor at the Weardale Hub on 01388 529500.

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