Volunteer drivers are going that extra mile to help those in need in Lincolnshire.

Thousands of people across Lincolnshire have been helped with transport through a growing network of community car schemes.

The council’s community transport forum is currently attended by representatives of 17 different schemes – all run by volunteers on a not-for-profit basis. The aim is to offer help with direct journeys to residents – often older or vulnerable people – who may not be able to afford the cost of private taxis.

Some schemes will go anywhere at any time, while others limit their journeys to certain areas, parishes or GP practices. In every case, the drivers are volunteers, keen to make a difference in their local communities.

They often also enjoy the social aspect, even for just a few hours each week. As regards charges, these vary from scheme to scheme, with some requiring a small annual subscription – or membership – fee to cover overheads.

There’s also usually a charge per mile to cover the driver’s costs. Typically, this is between 35p and 45p a mile, although it can be higher. If you’re keen to volunte