TRIP Community Transport Association reach out to younger passengers.

TRIP Community Transport Association is trying to dispel the myth that its ring and ride bus service is only for the elderly.

The service, based in Honiton, was initially set up to cater for elderly passengers, but had to adapt to cope with the change in demand for community transport and keep the service viable in light of the increasing use of the free bus pass.

The chairman of TRIP, Val Royle, said: “It was the case when we first started up, but this has now changed.”

TRIP manager Neil Hurlock added: “The ring and ride service is open to all.

“The whole thing is about breaking down isolation for people of any age and stopping people being home alone.”

“The service means people at home have a chance to get out at least once or twice a week.”

The ring and ride bus is currently used to run weekend trips away, pub lunches, shopping visits and other weekly outings.

It covers Honiton and the surrounding areas, including Gittisham, Offwell, Feniton, Talaton, Awliscombe, West Hill and Dunkeswell as well as Stockland if there are sufficient numbers.

Mr Hurlock said: “The service can be for an older person or someone with disability or mobility issues or it can be for a person of any age who is rurally isolated.

“It is for community groups of any age, schools and sports clubs.”

TRIP is an independent charity but it does receive financial support from the district and county council as well as Honiton Town Council and other parish councils.

Mr Hurlock added: “The more people that use the service the stronger TRIP is because it will mean we can get continued support from East Devon District Council and Devon County Council.”

For more information call TRIP on 01404 46529 or visits its New Street office.