A COMMUNITY bus is available for hire by groups in north Durham.

Consett Churches Detached Youth Project has teamed up with Durham County Council and Derwent Valley Partnership on the scheme to help people get around the area.

The new Community Transport minibus, is available for hire on a first come, first served basis.

Consett Churches Detached Youth Project has said it is also looking for volunteers to drive the bus and support the scheme.

Youth project manager Jackie Forbes said: “This new bus is a wonderful opportunity, but if the Derwent Valley area is to get best use from it we need more volunteer drivers.

“We would also love to find someone who will help lead the Community Transport side of our project.”

Consett Churches Detached Youth Project will be the core user of the bus and will take responsibility for the running and hiring of the bus.

The bus will be available to hire, at affordable rates, for local community and voluntary groups, sports clubs and other organisations.

It is also hoped volunteers will be recruited to help support the running of the bus.

The project was developed and funded by the Derwent Valley Partnership, which contributed £10,000 in partnership with Durham County Council’s Sustainable Transport Team, which contributed £29,400.

Anyone who would like to find out more about hiring the bus or volunteering within Consett Churches Detached Youth Project, should contact Jackie Forbes on 01207-501-863.