A COMMUNITY minibus which provides transport to and from local GP appointments helped elderly and isolated patients attend over 60 appointments since last November - and hopes to continue.

The Bedale Community Minibus is a registered charity set up to provide transport to residents and the surrounding area to include those with special needs, the elderly and the disabled.

A pilot study was undertaken to look at patient transport in the area. The BCM trustees were keen to take part and soon found that 76 per cent used their own car or arranged for friends to help them get to and from their appointments at Glebe House Surgery.

Many of the patients were found to be aged 71 and over with some mobility restrictions. It was agreed to operate a trial scheme for three months operating one day a week.

Practice manager Martin Baggaley said: “The minibus was introduced to provide door-to-door transport for patients who need to get to and from appointments at our practice in Bedale.

"It’s now operated 8.30am to 5pm every Tuesday by volunteers and a modest charge of £5 per return journey is requested from each patient to cover costs to the BCM –although people accompanying patients are not charged."

Volunteer driver Jennifer Lancaster, 69, said: "I usually drive at least once or twice a month but more recently due to a shortage in volunteers, it’s been more regular. But I really enjoy it and you can see how valued it is by patients and local residents."

The service continues but the charity would like to encourage more people to make use of the bus. They are also looking for volunteer drivers.

Contact on 01677-425329, 9.30am – noon Monday to Friday, or email bedalecommunityminibus@btconnect.com