A COMMUNITY transport service is preparing to celebrate its tenth anniversary this month.

Weardale Community Transport (WCT), based in Stanhope Front Street was set up in 2005 by Weardale Community Partnership.

The service supports disabled and vulnerable passengers by providing a personal service which includes regular lunch and shopping trips using their fleet of seven buses and a car.

The scheme is manned by a group of 15 volunteers who help local residents visit shops and participate in activity based outings.

WCT also provides a scheduled bus service on a Sunday to all Weardale residents.

MP Pat Glass visited the group to meet staff and service users. She said: “Weardale Community Transport is a fantastic example of the community spirit and co-operation so often found in rural communities and I am delighted to be able to congratulate them on a decade of helpful service to the community.

“I wish them great success moving forward as they continue to build partnerships in the community to increase the scope of their services and develop their coverage to help more people with their everyday needs.”

WCT is hosting an afternoon tea dance at Stanhope Church Hall on Saturday, August 15, to thank customers for their support and an evening barbecue for staff and volunteers.

For more information visit weardalecommunitytransport.org.uk.