A VITAL minibus service in Trowbridge could be forced to disband if no volunteers come forward, according to the chairman of Trowbridge Guild of Community Service.

John Greenaway is calling on members of the public to volunteer for the committee so that its two minibuses can continue to operate.

The minibus service, which has been running for more than 40 years, is used by the elderly and disabled or those without access to public transport. This includes shopping trips, visits to lunch and disability clubs and outings.

“For a lot of people they don’t get out all that much so this service gives them an outing,” said Mr Greenaway, 83, who has been a member of Trowbridge Guild of Community Service for 35 years.

“For many of them it’s a door-to-door service and very much a personal service that we give.

“Where it’s necessary the drivers will go to the door, help them on the bus and they will carry the shopping in the house.

“I think a lot of them would be upset if it stopped.

“We’ve just lost another couple of people off the committee and we’re getting a bit desperate.

“There is a risk without a doubt that the service could stop without volunteers and I think a lot of people would miss it tremendously.”

A new minibus was bought for £56,500 last year with around 200 people using the service every week.

Positions vacant on the committee include a secretary, a deputy treasurer, deputy chairman amongst other roles.

“We’re not asking for a large amount of time, we’re just asking for people to put their skills towards services,” added Mr Greenaway.

“These days there’s so much more money than there was and so many ways for people to spend it.

“People have just got out of the habit of volunteering but the thing people don’t realise is giving help to others is satisfying.

“We need volunteers to give up some time and we’re quite happy to talk to them about what is involved.

“Without knowing anything about the Hopper or cuts to the normal buses services like this actually become even more essential in the town.”

Anyone interested in volunteering should contact Mr Greenaway on 01225 753489 or at johnandglayne@blueyonder.co.uk