AN upsurge in funding and the enthusiasm of a leader has seen a Thurrock community travel service bounce back to life.

A couple of years ago it seemed that the days of volunteer-driven Thurrock TransVol were numbered due to a drop off in customers and a lack of financial support.

However, there has been a big turnaround and the service is now on the up.

Transvol manager Denise Cheeseman applied and was awarded grant to support the service and winning a number of contracts from Thurrock Council to transport children to and from school has been a salvation for the charity.

Last year they managed over 20,000 trips for their 1,500 users and despite the problems of coronavirus this year, things have been looking up again.

Transvol chair Neil Woodbridge said: "It's hard with the virus, but just helping people to get their shopping or have a safe visit in their family bubble is a massive thing that we are proud to do as a charity."

If you know anyone who is isolated by way of transport – give Denise a ring on 01375 391 444.