Cllr John Petherick who was born in Dawlish has the honour of being chairman of Teignbridge. During his year as chairman, Cllr Petherick and his wife Cllr Linda Petherick have chosen East Teignbridge Community Transport Association as their Charity of the year.

They are hoping to raise money towards the purchase of a new vehicle.

Cllr Petherick said ‘we are raising funds for a specifically adapted bespoke minibus, costing more than £65,000. It is a fully equipped wheelchair accessible vehicle, enabling any person to travel anywhere.

Travelling by minibus is a great way to meet new people, make friends and see other towns and villages, while getting those daily tasks done, which could include, banking, shopping, and everyday essential chores.

The charity helps people to manage their everyday lives and keep their independence, with the bonus of being provided with door to door service.

Without these vehicles Community Transport simply cannot provide the services, which supports over 1,200 individual people in the East Teignbridge area.

In addition, over the last financial year they provided 401 group bookings, which would not be possible without this essential vehicle.

A spokesman said: ‘In these strange times Community Transport need all the support they can get from the community they serve.’

If anybody would like to donate to the chairman’s charity please contact Cllr John Petherick on [email protected] or Cllr Linda Petherick on [email protected] and they will give you the details of how to donate.