Party with the Queen for two Shropshire volunteer drivers

Press release - 12 July 2007

Two volunteer drivers from Shropshire have been invited to one of the Queen’s Garden Parties at Buckingham Palace later this month (Tuesday 17 July) in recognition of their dedication to providing vital transport for people with special needs.

John and Kathy South, from Shrewsbury, form part of Shropshire County Council’s Voluntary Car Service (VCS). VCS drivers put aside a certain number of hours each week to take community services clients to their day centres or to take children or young people with special educational needs to their schools or colleges.

Kathy joined VCS over 33 years ago and John followed her 18 years ago.

When asked why they volunteer, John and Kathy, said: “We both get enormous enjoyment and satisfaction out of helping people. It is lovely when you get to know the person and they look forward to seeing you, they make you feel important. Also, we feel that if we don’t help other people, how could we expect others to help us when we need it?.”

Currently, the VCS have almost 100 volunteer drivers and escorts who, between them, cover around 1.2 million miles annually. However, this vital resource is in short supply in some areas and the service is looking to recruit new volunteers.

To register as a volunteer driver or escort, call Shropshire County Council on 01743 253313 or follow the link on this page.

Ends

For media contact, call Laura Owen, Communications Officer, Economy & Environment on (01743) 253318.