A CHARITY is launching a shopping scheme for elderly residents living in areas with poor transport links.

Age UK North Yorkshire recently carried out a survey looking at the needs of residents living in areas of isolation, or with a lack of public transport.

As a result, the organisation is to run two pilot shopping services for residents in East and North Cowton, near Northallerton, and for residents of Easingwold.

The scheme will deliver people to and from their front doors to Northallerton, if they live in Easingwold, and to Richmond if they live in Cowton.

Sonia Gallagher, from Age UK’s Northallerton branch, said: “ We found there was an insufficient bus service in these two areas. North and East Cowton are the same distance from Richmond as they are from Darlington, but if they want to go to Richmond, they have to get a bus all the way to Darlington first.

“The service will be limited at first because it’s bespoke, but we’re hoping to get these pilot schemes on the road in the next few months.”

Age UK are also going to trial a scheme offering online shopping, whereby residents visiting Northallerton can learn how to shop online and use the charity’s computer facilities.

The organisers would like to hear from anyone who can volunteer as either a minibus assistant, or as a Midas-trained minibus driver.

For more information ring 01609-771624 or go along to an information coffee morning organised by Age UK at its offices on 33 High Street on Thursday, May 3 at 10.30am.