Ryedale Community Transport is offering volunteering opportunities in the Helmsley and Kirkbymoorside area

A popular volunteer car scheme that has been running since 1989 in Ryedale is looking for new individuals to help meet the increased demand from residents for journeys for medical appointments and other essential purposes.

With over 1,300 clients, Ryedale Community Transport is recruiting new volunteer drivers with particular focus on Helmsley, Kirkbymoorside and the surrounding villages. The volunteers would use their own cars when carrying out the journeys for the clients who require the service.

Ryedale Community Transport’s Chief Officer Andrew Fuller said: "Volunteer driving is a highly-valued and enjoyable activity to help our community. As a volunteer driver, you will be able to improve other people's lives by getting out and about around beautiful Ryedale while giving as much, or as little, of your time as you would like to spare.

"Volunteers who use their cars receive 45p per mile tax-free mileage allowance to compensate them for the running costs of their vehicles from the moment they leave their homes until they come back.

"If you have your own car and think you could help out, please do give us a call on 01653 699059, Monday to Friday, 9.30am to 2.30pm."

Councillor George Jabbour, who represents the Helmsley and Sinnington division on North Yorkshire Council, added: “The volunteer car scheme that’s offered by Ryedale Community Transport is both successful and popular, not only amongst the residents who benefit from the service, but also amongst the volunteers who find it a fulfilling and satisfying way to make a difference.

"This explains why some of the drivers have been volunteering for well over a decade. I would encourage anyone who lives locally and who would like to assist others to put their name forward and join the scheme.”