TWO stalwarts of the Okehampton and District Community Transport Group have been recognised by Devon County Council for their hard work.

At a ceremony at County Hall in Exeter an award was presented to group secretary Geoffrey Gill and a special award for 'outstanding contribution' to community transport was given to Catherine Martineau, a volunteer driver for the Okehampton Ring and Ride scheme.

Mr Gill has been a parish council representative on the committee from its inception 11 years ago and has been secretary for the past three years.

He was nominated for being a constant source of support with his knowledge of the public transport system ensuring that the group worked with and not against these services.

Mr Gill was described as ultra-efficient and always one step ahead with letters and keeping people on their toes with his calm, stoic support.

Now in her seventies, Catherine Martineau, a retired teacher, was nominated for a special award by Drewsteignton Parish Council.

Parish clerk Tony Milward said there was no-one more deserving to receive acknowledgment for such 'selfless, voluntary work'.

Over the past eight years, Mrs Martineau has and continues to be a volunteer driver for the ring and ride scheme which involves journeys for the Age Concern Lunch Club, hospital visits, health centre appointments and emergency call-outs.

By her recognition of the problems of transport for the elderly and infirm, Mrs Martineau has made it possible for many to prolong their independence in their own homes.

Okehampton and district community transport group treasurer Carol Ward said the award recipients were two mainstays of the group.

'We are very pleased that Catherine and Geoff have been recognised for their wonderful work,' she said.

'As an organisation we are getting bigger and better all the time and with a new vehicle which came on stream last week we will be able to extend the service to more people.'

Okehampton and District Community Transport Group currently has 15 volunteer car drivers but is always looking for new recruits.

Hundreds of disabled and elderly people have used the ring and ride bus and community car service which have transported passengers from their door into Okehampton for shopping and appointments and to see friends and relatives.

A new seven-seater vehicle will be available for use by parents and small children who live in isolated areas without transport.

If anyone wants to become a volunteer contact Sandra Hucker on 01837 55000 for more information.