THE benefits of community transport will be fully highlighted by a roadshow event in Okehampton as part of Devon's Community Transport Awareness Week. Community transport is provided by charitable organisations and is available for the many people, especially in rural Devon, that may live miles from the nearest bus route, or are unable to afford taxi fares or are physically unable to use the public transport services provided. Okehampton and District Community Transport Group can provide transport to health appointments, services, shops and leisure activities where no transport or no suitable transport is available. Sue Wonnacott, co-ordinator for Okehampton and District Community Transport Group, said: 'Our roadshow aims to raise the awareness of the value and variety of community transport services available in the area. 'We look forward to welcoming everyone to learn more about the transport options available, which people may not need today but maybe know of a family member or neighbour that could do with some help.' The event has been organised by Transport for Your Community, an organisation which is made up of community transport group members across Devon. At the awareness day, alongside the Okehampton group there will also be representatives from Transport for Your Community's main sponsor GM Coachwork, who specialise in wheelchair access vehicles and vehicle adaptations, as well as Devon Wheels 2 Work, Countryside Mobility, and Healthwatch Devon and CAB, who are working together to give local people the opportunity to voice their opinions about local health and social care services and how they can be improved. The roadshows will also be supported by home meal service provider Oakhouse Foods. Cllr Stuart Hughes, Devon County Council cabinet member for highway management, said: 'Community Transport is for the many people, especially in rural Devon, that may live miles from the nearest bus route, or are unable to afford taxi fares or are physically unable to use public transport. 'The roadshow during awareness week is an opportunity for people to find out more about community transport and realise what is available to them. 'As well as the Community Transport groups, there will also be some fun activities to help promote the invaluable services that these charities provide. 'I would ask everyone to take the time to come along — you'll be surprised what fantastic services are available in your local parishes.' The event runs on Saturday, June 14 in the Co-operative car park on Market Street from 10am to noon. For more information on community transport in Okehampton call the Okehampton and District Community Transport Group on 01837 55000 or e-mail Sue Wonnacott on [email protected]">[email protected] or visit http://www.odctg.org.uk">www.odctg.org.uk