HAMBLETON Community Action has bagged £1,000 from Tesco’s Bags of Help community grant scheme.

Bags of Help is run in partnership with community charity Groundwork, and sees grants awarded to thousands of local community projects every year.

The funds have enabled Hambleton Community Action to upgrade its IT system to improve the co-ordination of its Community Car scheme.

Chief Officer, Liz Lockey said: “The community car scheme is delivered by around 40 local volunteer drivers who provide transport using their own vehicles for clients in the Northallerton and Bedale areas.

“The service is a lifeline for people as it enables them to get about with ease, convenience and peace of mind, allowing them to maintain their independence and helps to prevent social isolation.

“Our volunteer drivers are a friendly bunch and our clients tell us they really appreciate how the drivers make each journey a social event and provide one to one care.”

As Covid restrictions are now being eased, the charity is seeing increased number of journeys being requested by people needing to go to James Cook, North Tees, and other local hospitals for appointments.

Anyone who can offer a few hours per week as a volunteer driver, can contact the charity for more details on 01609 780458 or by email at reception@hambleton communityaction.org