Give the gift of time this Christmas

GIVE the gift of time this Christmas and become a volunteer with Country Cars.

Volunteers are needed from across Carmarthenshire to help with providing transport for people with no other means of getting around.

The voluntary car service is run by the Royal Voluntary Service (RVS) in partnership with the council’s passenger transport unit.

There are 12 separate schemes where communities arrange for volunteer local drivers to give lifts to local people who would otherwise be unable to make essential journeys.

It is designed for rural areas where bus services are not very frequent, but also caters for people who are physically unable to use public transport in both town and country areas.

Country Cars is part of the overall public transport system that can help when no other transport exists.

Volunteer drivers who are willing to use their own cars are needed as well as volunteer organisers who can work from home arranging journeys. Volunteers receive expenses to cover their costs, including a mileage allowance for drivers.

Executive Board Member for Transport Cllr Hazel Evans said: “Country Cars is the county’s public transport ‘safety net’, and is particularly important in rural areas to provide links to bus and train, or door-to-door transport when needed.

“The scheme only survives thanks to the dedication of volunteers who give up their own time to help others, and we would urge anyone who thinks they may be able to spare some time to come forward.”

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer and would like to find out more please contact the RVS on 01269 843819.

For more information on the scheme visit www.carmarthenshire.gov.wales or call the council on 01267 234 567 for details of your local organiser.