That is why volunteers are keeping vital transport service going.

VOLUNTEERS for a vital transport link are helping to keep the charity alive by providing a valuable service to its passengers.

TRIP Community Transport Association, in Honiton, has about 40 volunteer drivers, who are helping to ensure passengers are able to get to their desired destinations.

Volunteer Margaret Hawkins has been driving for TRIP for six years after reading an appeal for drivers.

She said: “It gets me out and about, and the people that you meet are so nice and appreciative of the service - because, for some of them, it is a lifeline as it is cheaper than a taxi.

“For the people I pick up, it is very important as many of them will tell you they really appreciate the service we provide.”

The volunteer drivers help take passengers to doctor or hospital appointments, as well as visits to see loved ones.

Margaret added: “It is very worthwhile; a lot of people say they can’t manage without it.

“You can do hours that suit you and you don’t have to do it everyday.”

Mrs Klima, who regularly uses the service with her husband, said: “It is very important to us, as we don’t have transport and the buses are quite limited. I don’t know what we would do without the volunteers.”

Another service user, Kathleen Shand, said: “I don’t know what we would do without them.

“It is wonderful and we do appreciate it.

“I don’t think we can put a value on the volunteers – they are invaluable. What would we do without them?”

TRIP drivers have travelled more than 73,000 miles in the line of duty and are a vital part of the community.

Neil Hurlock, the manager of TRIP, said: “Without volunteers we wouldn’t be able to do the job and we are really grateful for their help and what they do.”

“We could always do with more volunteers. It is not a major commitment - if you are prepared to give half a day, a month or three months, it is up to you.

“We are grateful for whatever time people can give us.”

For more information on volunteering, visit the TRIP office in Honiton or call (01404) 46529.