A new travel service has been launched for elderly and infirm people living in the urban areas of Thurrock.

Trans-Vol, the borough community transport charity, has introduced the Urban Bus Club to run alongside the Rural Bus Club already operating in the borough.

It will run between 9am and 11.30pm seven days a week and can be used for shopping trips, social activities, doctor and dentist appointments, visits to family and friends and much more.

It offers a door-to-door service in a 12-seater minibus with wheelchair access. Travel anywhere in Thurrock costs just £1.50 for a single trip.

Trans-Vol worked in partnership with Thurrock Council to gain Government funding for this new service and has been awarded a grant for £300,000.

Tony Fish, chairman of the charity, said; "More than 3,500 people have used Trans-Vol for around 60,000 trips during the past year.

"I'm delighted that we now have the funding to create the Urban Bus Club in addition to the Rural Bus Club.

"Trans-Vol provides a vital service to many of the borough's residents, helping them to get to premises that otherwise would be impossible.

"This funding is vital to ensure the continuity of the bus service but there are also many local volunteers, dedicated to helping local people get around, who use their own cars to provide an excellent service.

"Without their support Trans-Vol would not be able to help as many people."

To find out more about the Urban Bus Club or to become a member call 01375 652114. The service is also available to community groups and people on low incomes.

Published Thursday, January 2, 2003

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