VITAL low-cost trips to medical appointments and shops are being maintained throughout the second lockdown by a district charity.

Trustees at Newton Abbot Community Transport Association (NACTA) made the decision to ‘keep calm and carry on’ at a special meeting held after Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced details of the latest restrictions.

The board consulted with staff and volunteers before deciding that most of the group’s services were just too important to be suspended.

Many of the people who rely on them are elderly, vulnerable or isolated, sometimes all three.

Chair Nigel Canham said: ‘Having thought long and hard we decided it was possible to keep delivering the support we offer while ensuring that staff, volunteers and customers safe.

‘All of our vehicles have been fitted with screens and hand sanitiser, we have also reduced the number of passengers we carry.

‘Face masks are worn at all times.

‘Our Shopmobility scooters are cleaned thoroughly between each hire and our supply of daily living aids remains in demand from occupational therapists.

‘The scheduled rural bus services we operate provide the only means for villagers to access our larger towns and with education establishments remaining open our school transport is still required.

‘Yes, we’ve scaled back operations a little but the important thing is that we’re still here, still supporting a community we know would struggle without us.

‘This would not be possible without the exceptional dedication of our staff and volunteers, all of whom have been offered the chance to step away from their work during lockdown but who have, on the whole, decided to carry on.

‘NACTA provides a lifeline for hundreds of people at a cost they can afford.

‘Even in normal circumstances, many of our customers effectively live their lives in lockdown, we are their link with the outside world.

‘We’re proud of what we do, grateful for the support we receive and keen to hear from anyone who thinks they might need our help.’

NACTA can be contacted on 01626 335775 or via [email protected].