A local community group has been awarded almost £20,000 to support its work providing transport to the rurally isolated in West Somerset.

Wiveliscombe Area Partnership benefited from National Lottery funding to support its work.

It provides over 10,500 journeys a year to over 600 members.

The awarded funds will uphold the service run by volunteers, offering necessary transportation to individuals and groups in rural areas who may have limited access to public transport.

The group offers transportation to the vulnerable, elderly, and disabled, who otherwise would not have access to necessary appointments and social events.

Chair of the community group, Pauline Homeshaw said: "We're delighted that The National Lottery Community Fund has recognised our work in this way.

"Thanks to National Lottery players we will be able to continue our work while we plan for the future.

"We are equally grateful for the ongoing support of the Wiveliscombe Town Council and many Parish Councils who support our work so that we can continue to deliver for their community who need us".

Somerset County Gazette: Wiveliscombe Area Partnership provides over 10,500 journeys a year to over 600 members

She continued: "Without the Council’s support, many more people would be isolated and lonely.

"Community Transport is vital to rural areas like ours and as we are thrown back on our own resources, working more closely together is key to the future."

Up until recently, the continuation of this service was under threat due to changes in grant funding from Somerset Council.

However, thanks to generosity from The National Lottery and the Wiveliscombe Town Council, who contributed a further £6,000, the Wivey Link transportation service will not be halted.

Last year, the service played a key role in facilitating 500 medical appointments, 841 hospital appointments, and nearly 4,000 social care journeys.

Roger Wilson, chair of Wiveliscombe Town Council, also praised the community group: "Wivey Link is one of the many volunteer-led groups based in our town and the Council is delighted to support this vital transport charity as it benefits our community as well as providing access to other local towns."

To find out more visit www.TNLCommunityFund.org.uk