A PILOT travel voucher scheme is being launched to help isolated residents.

Age UK North Yorkshire is launching its initiative to help people who have difficulty in accessing local transport in the Richmondshire area. The scheme is not dependent on age, but is targeted at people who struggle to get out and about because of health or mobility problems, or because their community lacks a bus service.

Those eligible will be given travel vouchers to use with local taxi firms and other transport companies participating in the scheme. People can receive up to £60 worth of vouchers for the year if they pay £30, or they can receive them free if in receipt of certain benefits.

The scheme works by post only, to avoid people having to collect vouchers in person.

The charity has received a grant from Richmondshire District Council to develop the scheme in the area.

For more information or to apply, contact Age UK North Yorkshire on 01609-771624 and the charity will send out full details, including an application form.