LANCASHIRE County Council has launched a recruitment drive to attract motorists to its Community Transport Service, which offers disabled people in rural areas the chance to get out and about.

The County Cars scheme is made up of 14 teams of volunteer drivers around Lancashire who provide transport in their own cars for people who find it difficult or impossible to use public transport or have no other means of making a trip.

The scheme provides a lifeline for many people allowing them to easily visit the doctors, dentists, social clubs and the shops.

Volunteers are given financial support towards the running costs and fares are set in line with local bus services - concessionary bus passes can also be used.

County councillor Nora Ward, cabinet member for highways and transport, explained: "The county cars scheme is valued highly by those who use it.

"It is intended to complement local bus and taxi services. We need to make sure new people help provide the service so that people in remote communities and those that have trouble getting out and about continue to benefit."

County councillor Tim Ormrod, cabinet member for rural affairs, explained: "This is a chance to join our team of volunteer drivers and I would urge anyone who thinks they can help to find out more."

To find out more about County Cars should call Elaine Jones on 01772 264246