CHERITON Fitzpaine Welcome Club’s recent main meal saw a full house, which was greatly enjoyed by all.

Afterwards, members enjoyed a short talk by Sarah Holmes from Crediton and District Community Transport Association. Sarah explained what options were available to frail, elderly, rurally-isolated or people with a disability who find public transport difficult to use.

Apart from the minibus, which has a tail lift facility and must be operated by a paid member of staff, all the drivers are volunteers using their own cars.

Sadly, as grants are now being heavily cut due to the current economic climate, the organisation is constantly seeking other funding options in order to help them become sustainable, and is very grateful for any contributions it receives.

Those needing the service, or wishing to be a volunteer driver should telephone 01363 773303. Sarah was thanked by Ann Jackson.

Sadly, since this meal, we have lost one of our Welcome Club stalwarts, Jan Gladwell, who also made good use of the Community Transport services. Jan died in the Exeter Hospice on Sunday, February 12.

Mary Nunn