As readers may be aware the Axe Valley & West Dorset Ring and Ride Service has been operational for several years and offers a lifeline to many people who do not have access to public transport.

The west Dorset part of the service is due to close by the end of the year if funding isn’t found from Dorset Council.

East Dorset Council has supported it by providing the charity with £20,000 per year, whilst Dorset Council has not supported it since 2019.

This is a vital lifeline for many people who do not have access to public transport, by picking them up from around 30 villages and taking them on shopping and leisure trips when they have no other way of getting around.

It is a vital service to those who have benefitted from it over the last few years. Its loss will be devastating for many older people who rely on this service, which gets them out of their homes, where they can meet people and benefit from being a bit more independent.

Please write to your local councillors to urge them to support this: cllrray.bryan@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk and cllrsimon.christopher@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk

Sue Wilkinson

Watton Park

Bridport