A TAVISTOCK Area Support Services’ minibus driver has been presented with the coveted Volunteer Minibus Driver Award.

Glenn Goodman was one of ten proud community transport volunteers and staff members from across the county to receive an award at a special ceremony last week (June 15) by Devon County Council.

After receiving the award, Glenn said: ‘I have volunteered for TASS for seven years and it was really nice to be recognised for what we do.

‘I started volunteering after I saw in the Times that volunteer drivers were needed and as I had been a lorry driver for 20 years I thought I would apply.’

TASS manager Diane Newman nominated Glenn forward for the award. She said: ‘I’m absolutely delighted that he has been recognised for his contribution.’

In proposing Glenn Diane said: ‘It is vital that our volunteers understand the clientele we support and Glenn is great at imparting this information and then demonstrating this to ensure we have a consistent approach.

‘Glenn regularly conveys people to our Stroke and Parkinson’s clubs so specialist knowledge, under-standing and sensitivity are called for. People experiencing difficulties with mobilising like to feel supported but discreetly. Glenn explains everything to the client as they progress which gives them confidence.

‘Glenn also conveys clients twice a week to local community drop-ins and will step in when we are unable to cover a trip, even rearranging his holiday last year so people weren’t let down.

‘He will also step up to the mark as volunteer car driver if needed and for individual wheelchair trips in our Berlingo.

‘All in all, Glenn is a vital member of the team and someone we can always rely upon.’

Devon County Council Chairman Ray Radford, who presented the awards, said: ‘Community Transport services in the county provide essential opportunities for people to access health services, shopping and social activities and in some cases even helping people to get to work.

‘The awards are testament to the fact that so much can be achieved by key individuals working within teams in their community.’

Cllr Roger Croad, Devon County Council Cabinet member with responsibility for community transport, said: ‘The Community Transport Awards remind us of the enormous difference that small charities, and the local volunteers and staff who are part of them, can make to the everyday lives of the people in our county.

‘Community transport is a highly valued service in Devon and it’s nice that their efforts can be recognised at this annual event.’

All nominations were considered by a judging panel consisting of Elaine Cook, chief executive of Devon Communities Together, Moses Warburton, NEW Devon Clinical Commissioning Group’s lead commissioner for urgent and unplanned care and Dave Black, Devon County Council’s head of planning, transportation and environment.