A WEST Devon transport charity is appealing for help to raise money to buy a new vehicle to accommodate big and heavy wheelchairs.

Over the last seven years, TASS (Tavistock Area Support Services) has become one of the larger providers of community transport in Devon.

The charity now operates five wheelchair accessible mini buses, Shopmobility and a voluntary car service.

Through the integrated transport service, it also offers advice and information regarding the most suitable and cost effective forms of transport, as well as working closely with other providers of wheelchair accessible transport, making sure people access the right form of transport to get out and about.

Andy Lyle, manager at TASS, said: 'Over this period of time, we have encountered many changes to how we deliver our services and the greatest challenge now facing us is that the weight and size of wheelchairs is getting heavier and bigger.

'To meet this problem, we are proposing to purchase a new vehicle with a larger tail lift and more robust harnessing.

'This will mean that we can provide access to all and give people hope as they will be able to get out and about and access specialist groups such as the Parkinson's, stroke, physically challenged groups as well as the Memory Café and others, which will in turn give them a greater sense of freedom and hopefully avoid depression and a feeling of isolation.

'Each week at present, ewe have to turn people away, as we, nor anyone else, can provide this type of transport, hence this approach to seek support in helping us help others to get out and about and lead full and meaningful lives.'

The cost of such a vehicle is £38,55.

TASS transports more than 230 people each week to group meetings, trips out and hospital appointments and a vehicle such as this would give the charity the opportunity to help even more older and disabled people get out and about.

Andy added: 'In rural areas, transport is crucial, but for a lot of people, due to their disability and size of wheelchair, are prisoners in their own accommodation, not being able to do the basics for themselves, let alone go to the shops, doctor's or attend social activities.'

Anyone who can help support the charity should contact Andy on 01822 616958 or visit the Anchorage Centre in Tavistock, next to the bus station.