GILBERT JOINS WRVS FOR TRIP TO TRELISKE

12.00.00pm GMT Fri 8th Feb 2008

Local Liberal Democrat candidate Stephen Gilbert got a lift to Treliske hospital recently with the Restormel WRVS.

Stephen Gilbert took the trip to help highlight the work that is done by the WRVS's Restormel Car Service which uses volunteer drivers to help get vulnerable people from across Restormel to and from hospital and other vital appointments.

Stephen Gilbert said: "The Restormel Car Service, run by the WRVS, is a real life-line to many people across Restormel and it helps vulnerable groups keep more of their independence and dignity. Like many charities it is dependent on volunteers and I know they are short of drivers at the moment."

Stephen spoke with Eve Venner, one of the WRVS's drivers about her experience as a volunteer driver. Eve said: "It's great to be able to do something to help people who can't always help themselves. In many cases they have nowhere else to turn and others don't want always to rely on family and friends."

The service is part funded by Restormel Borough Council and has just received funding for the next financial year but is in need of new drivers.

WRVS Manager Richard Sumner said: "We pay expenses to our drivers to cover their fuel costs and are always looking for people to help. Even making one trip a week would help."

The WRVS can be contacted on 01726 63770.