COMMUNITY transport organisers in the region have welcomed a move by the Government to issue fuel rebates to such groups.

Yesterday's announcement, which was made by Local Transport Minister Sally Keeble, will cover services such as dial-a-ride minibuses for the disabled and older people.

With savings of up to 80 per cent on conventional fuels and a 100 per cent rebate of duty on gas used as road fuel, the move will help organisations expand and develop their services.

Mick Moat, of Darlington and District Youth and Community Association, which runs a dial-a-ride scheme, welcomed the move.

He said: "Obviously, if it is as good as they say, it will certainly help greatly the service we provide on a number of fronts.

"By the time we have had a chance to look at the full implications, I think the association will be able to benefit and, consequently, so will the people to whom we provide a service.