South Holland Parish Voluntary Car Service continues search for drivers
The South Holland Parish Voluntary Car Service has filled the vacant positions on its board - but the search continues for more drivers.
The VCS offers an invaluable lifeline to the elderly and in need in the area, helping them get to important appointments at an affordable price.
The group recently held an extraordinary general meeting to fill a number of roles within the service, which had been left following departures and the death of long-time supporter Angela Newton.
Alan Hammersley was voted in as the new chairman, having held the role in an interim position.
He will also become the treasurer.
Tim Barzycki was named the new vice-chairman at the meeting held at the Pinchbeck Community Hub and Library last Thursday.
Meanwhile, Hilary Marks was named the CVS’ secretary.
With positions on the board sorted, the attention now turns to the recruitment of more drivers.
“We still need drivers desperately,” explained South Holland Parish Voluntary Car Service co-ordinator Greg Greene, who recently spoke to this newspaper about the need for more helpers.
“Since the article one of our drivers has moved on elsewhere, so we’ve actually lost one driver.”
The service - which stretches as far as Sutton Bridge - has been seen as more important than ever for the elderly to reach appointments in sparsely populated region, at a time when bus routes are being reduced, trains through Spalding are affected by strike action and the ambulance service finds itself under pressure.
Prior to Covid lockdons, the Voluntary Car Service was covering 200,000 miles annually.
Mr Greene understands an annual meeting will be called by the board in the new year.
“Maybe things will improve by then but we’re still looking for more volunteers,” added Mr Greene, who finds the experience fulfilling.
“Most people generally acknowledge that giving and helping others brings you more joy than taking.
“I know people are generally hard up but if anyone is available to help others and feel they can then it is very rewarding.”
Volunteer drivers are paid expenses.