West Hampshire car ride service urges people to volunteer as drivers

Two Bridges gives free car rides to the most vulnerable

Author: Ines SantosPublished 17th Dec 2022

Two Bridges is an organisation that gives free car rides to the infirm, disabled, and aged people from the local community.

A group of volunteer drivers take people to medical appointments, hospitals, the dentist, and sometimes shopping.

Two Bridges is now looking for new volunteer drivers due to their fast-increasing demand.

Derek Ayling, Coordinator and former Chairman of Two Bridges, says that the continuing effects of Covid-19 are the main reason for their high demand.

He said: “We’re very busy now; Covid made us busier. We manage to do most jobs, but everyone is working flat out, so that’s why we are looking for drivers.”

The communities served by the company include Fordingbridge, Sandleheath, Alderholt and Godshill, and has recently been extended to Martin and Rockbourne.

Destinations include Fordingbridge, Salisbury, Southampton, Bournemouth, Christchurch and Lymington.

Two Bridges was founded 20 years ago, but Derek says their service is more important now than ever.

He said: “There are no taxi firms in Fordingbridge at the moment, so we are an essential service now.”

The group would now like to hear from people who would be interested in volunteering as drivers.

Derek added: “The drivers always enjoy doing this job. My wife is a driver actually, and the company is good and gives her a sense of purpose. I cannot think of any negative factors.”

Those who would like to volunteer can reach Two Bridges on 0845 838 5902.

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