A COMMUNITY transport provider is to expand its services after receiving a £43,500 grant.

Peterlee charity Communicare received the money from the Countryside Agency, enabling it to lease two, 16-seater minibuses.

They are available for people living in the Easington district who have mobility problems, or who are aged 55 or over. Passengers can take a carer with them.

Communicare is staffed by a team of volunteers who provide transport to shopping centres, hospitals, bingo halls, and places of interest.

Community groups and voluntary organisations can also hire vehicles with a driver and passenger escort.

Liam Weatherill, the project co-ordinator, said: "The Countryside Agency funding, provided through the Rural Transport Partnership Vital Villages project, has enabled Communicare to continue its provision of transport to community groups and individuals who find it difficult to use other forms of transport.

"For a significant number of our passengers, it is their only opportunity to visit the facilities in their area.

"The lease of the two 16-seater minibuses ensures that the Communicare fleet has four identical vehicles, which are specifically designed to carry people who have mobility problems, and are fitted with wheelchair lifts and the latest safety equipment.

"Communicare services carry over 750 people per month, and there is room for further expansion."

For details, or to book a seat with Communicare, call Sharon on 0191-586 2393.