USERS of Dawlish Community Transport are now able to benefit from cheaper trips thanks to extra funding.

The charity has received confirmation of an application for cash to provide discounted journeys for users of its services.

Half price journeys for three days a week will now be supported through funding from the NHS South West Cost of Living Community Fund.

On Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, for a limited period, users will benefit from the door-to-door minibus pick-up service, using fully-adapted vehicles,  drivers and helpers.

Charity bosses say the funding will enable people to benefit from the journeys for half the usual cost.

The charity, which operates from Barton Hill car park in Dawlish, provides accessible transport across Teignbridge from Ashcombe, Ideford and Exminster to Starcross, Dawlish, Bishopsteignton and Teignmouth. 

The newly announced funding will help users access the organisation’s fully-adapted vehicles to travel to Teignmouth, Newton Abbot and The Willows in Torquay every week at discounted rates. 

Volunteer drivers and helpers provide the transport for 

basic shopping and access to the Post Office and banking.  

Dawlish Water Rotary Club has already supported its popular Tuesday trips which allows a continued discount to passengers.

These provide trips to places around Devon with up to two mini buses picking people up at home, from Kenton through to Dawlish Warren, to Teignmouth, Shaldon and Bishopsteignton. 

Office manager Sally Preston said: ‘Driving is at the heart of all we do yet we don’t just drive minibuses.  

‘We have a great fleet of community vehicles, cars as well, for shopping, social, medical and wellbeing journeys travelling far and wide, for the community.

‘Some people think we only travel disabled passengers but we are all about the community.

‘Anyone unable to use public transport or where no suitable transport is available, or a local group with a trip out in mind, give us a call to see if we can help.

‘You’re ever too young, never too old as children travel with us for their school trips, and those able and independent, to the not so young, yet young at heart.

‘The most mature lady still travelled with us at the young age of 104 years. 

‘Car journeys can be a lifeline for people.’

Anyone interested in volunteering or using the charity’ services can contact them on 01626 888890, on Facebook or via www.dawlish-mobility.co.uk, where full timetables can be found.