A COMMUNITY group providing much needed transport links for isolated people across the area is crying out for volunteers to cope with increasing demand.

Okehampton and District Community Transport Group is looking for drivers, particularly those based in the town to carry out trips for local appointments and longer distance journeys, such as trips to the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, or Derriford Hospital.

Group co-ordinator Sue Wonnacott said: 'Due to our increase in requests and the fact that some of our regular drivers are currently unavailable for several weeks or months, we are desperate for drivers, particularly ones based in Okehampton.

'We don't like to disappoint our clients, but we are currently finding it very difficult to fulfil all the requests.'

The group runs a ring and ride bus service, and a community car service. They provide transport for people who find it physically difficult to use conventional public transport, the frail, elderly and those who are rurally isolated.

Their community car scheme complements the ring and ride service and provides for more individual one-off journeys, like social visits and medical appointments.

They pay their drivers 45p per mile for long journeys and a flat rate of £3.50 for short journeys. They also indemnify your no claims bonus and policy excess.

Volunteers can spare as much time as they like, from a couple of hours a month upward. Drivers with relevant experience can also volunteer to drive the wheelchair accessible vehicle on trips.

For information, call Sue on 01837 55000.