A FURTHER appeal has been made for volunteers to operate a town bus in Lyme Regis following the loss of the service this summer.
Lyme Regis Town Council is trying to implement a replacement service after the number 71 town bus ceased operating in August.
The council appealed for volunteer drivers in October and six local people have come forward to offer their help, but more are needed for the service to be viable.
Passenger assistants are also needed to help the service run smoothly, such as helping people on and off and opening and closing the doors.
The council is hoping to run a minibus service, with the days and times of operation to be confirmed, dependent on volunteer availability.
The mayor, Cllr Philip Evans, said: “The council is very grateful to the six people who have already expressed an interest in volunteering for the town bus service.
“We cannot run the service without the support of the community so we need more people to come forward to help run this absolutely essential service.
“We haven’t had a town bus service in Lyme Regis since August and I know how much local residents are missing it. It really is a lifeline for some people and the town council remains steadfastly committed to relaunching the service.
“I would encourage anyone who has some time to spare and wants to help in the community to get involved and help us keep this much-needed bus service on the road.”
Volunteers will need to be able to commit to at least one day a week and be willing to undergo a DBS check.
Full training will be given and the council will provide the necessary insurance.
For those interested in driving, the council would particularly like to hear from those with class D1 on their driving licence as this allows holders to drive a minibus with no more than 16 passenger seats.
To register your interest or for more information, please email enquiries@lymeregistowncouncil.gov.uk or telephone 01297 445175.
Please register your interest by Friday 29 November.