A COMMUNITY car scheme can now operate for two extra days a week after receiving a welcome boost.

The service, run by Halesworth Volunteer Centre, has received a donation of £2,352 from the town council.

It means the scheme - which sees volunteer drivers using their own vehicles to provide transport for residents, allowing them to attend medical appointments, go shopping, enjoy social activities and to visit family and friends - can increase operations from three to five days a week.

Tracy Gardner, the volunteer centre manager, said they were delighted to have the town council’s support. “Our car scheme is a lifeline to some of the most vulnerable and less able members of our community including the elderly, those with impaired mobility and those who have no access to other forms of transport,” she said.

“We currently make between 220 and 260 journeys a week, but we now have the capacity to make more journeys. Of course operating more days means we could do with some more drivers, so if anyone can spare just an hour or two a week they could be making a huge difference.”

Mary Copperthwaite, Halesworth town clerk, said they wholeheartedly supported the work of the volunteer centre as many elderly and vulnerable residents relied on the car service to combat isolation.

The service runs from 10am-1pm, Monday to Friday. Call 01986 874290.