Community Transport provider Wivey Link has welcomed the latest member of its fleet and passengers and volunteers gathered to see the gleaming converted Ford Transit in The Square in Wiveliscombe.

Deputy Lord Lieutenant David Wood JP was chief guest and ‘declared the car open’.

Pauline Homeshaw, chairman of the Wiveliscombe Area Partnership which runs Wivey Link, said: “This isn’t just a new car, it’s a big step along the way to our future.”

She praised the many people who make the system work, not least Roy Barfield who worked hard to bring the new vehicle into service.

Wivey Link, with 600 registered passengers, offers transport to those who are isolated or unable to drive themselves.

Pauline praised the loyalty of Wivey Link passengers, among them Kath Cridland, who uses the service up to four times a week from her home in Milverton.

The new up-to-the-minute vehicle will carry seven passengers, or five if also carrying a wheelchair, and its extras include a swivel seat, automatic steps and high roof for ease of access for passengers.

Mr Wood said: “The Wiveliscombe Area Partnership offers Wivey Link, but also so much more through the Community Office and the town’s hub, and it is to be congratulated.”