A RETIRED farmer has retired once more – after eight years of working as a volunteer driver.

Don Wilkinson has hung up his car keys after completing well over 1,000 journeys for Northallerton and District Voluntary Service Association.

He has been part of the association’s Community Car Scheme – providing much needed transport to people unable to access public services.

And now he has been thanked for his years of service by the car scheme co-ordinator Claire Barnbrook.

“Don will be greatly missed - his services as a volunteer have been immeasurable and have made a significant difference to our clients’ lives,” she said.

“People still ask for Don to drive them, which bears testament to his contribution to the local community. We have a small team of dedicated volunteers and Don will be greatly missed.”

Don added: “I have really enjoyed volunteering for the scheme and have found it very rewarding.

“You get to meet lots of interesting people and are genuinely helping to make their lives easier – whether taking them to the doctors or hospital, social events, hairdressers or day centres.”

Anyone interested in volunteering for the scheme should contact Claire on 01609-761206; or call into Community House, 10 South Parade, Northallerton or email clairebarnbrook@ndvsa.co.uk.

The commitment is completely flexible to suit availability and mileage costs will be reimbursed.