A VOLUNTEER scheme has celebrated a landmark anniversary.

This month marked the 21st year of Basingstoke Neighbourcare, a volunteer-led organisation that provides over 500 clients with accompanied transportation for those unable to use other forms of public transport, for example the elderly or infirm.

At the Anvil on Thursday last week, trustees, volunteers, the mayor and mayoress of Basingstoke and Deane, the lord lieutenant of Hampshire Nigel Atkinson and Neighbourcare patron Lady Portsmouth attended a tea party in celebration.

The group thanked its volunteer drivers and befrienders at the celebration, and reminisced on the history of the service.

Basingstoke Neighbourcare chair Colin Hunsley said: “I would like to thank our drivers and all the other wonderful volunteers who provide our driving and befriending service.

“They are what make this charity a success, without them we would be nothing. I would also like to thank our coordinators who provide the glue that links the clients and their requirements to the volunteers who provide the services.”

The event was attended by people who have been with the service for many years including Gerald Merritt who has been a volunteer driver for 14 years after spotting an advert in the Gazette.

Gerald said: “It’s so interesting to do as you get to meet so many different people, I really could fill a book with the stories I get told.

“You really get to know the people that you drive around and for some people you are the only other person they will see that day and they really open up to you. They always appreciate us, and we are lucky to have this service here.”

Borough mayor Cllr Sean Keating, who was a volunteer driver with Neighbourcare for 10 years, said: “I’m delighted with how Neighbourcare is now. It is very well organised, and it was great fun when I was doing it. I’ve seen them grow from a semi-amateur to semi-professional organisation. It is well worthwhile to get involved.”

Mr Hunsley added: “We are also very grateful to Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council for their support this year and the next two years.”

Basingstoke Neighbourcare is looking for more volunteers. For more information, call 01256 423 855 or e-mail info@neighbourcare.com.