VOLUNTEER drivers from Teme Wheels in Tenbury will be on standby to help anyone who needs transport urgently over the Christmas and New Year holiday period.

The charity knows that emergencies do not stop just because it is holiday time.

So two of the volunteers will be available to help with any unforeseen emergencies including urgent medical appointments.

Those in need can phone on 01584 233131.

It has been a busy year for Teme Wheels that provides community transport.

The group has volunteer drivers who use their own cars as well as a small fleet of mini buses.

This includes Evie, a electric vehicle that went into service at the beginning of the year.

Teme Wheels is piloting the use of electric vehicles for community transport.

So far the feedback on Evie has been good. The vehicle has been modified to allow wheelchair access.

There had been some concerns about the suitability of an electric vehicle in a large and remote rural area because of the limited range and lack of charging points but so far all has been well.

The vehicle cost in the order of £40,000 with half of it raised on a matched funding basis by an appeal to local people and businesses.

Community transport is especially important in places where bus and other public transport is limited.