Goldsworth Care – one of Surrey’s Good Neighbour schemes – is celebrating 25 years of providing transport for residents of Goldsworth Park to medical and other appointments, as well as offering other services such as shopping and helping out with form filling.

A Goldsworth Care volunteer, Irene Watson, told the News & Mail: ”We have had many wonderful comments on our 25th anniversary from people who have used the service.

“One client said ‘Goldsworth Care has been a Godsend since I had to give up driving – it is a great comfort to know that I can call them and that one of their friendly and helpful drivers will take me to the appointment and home again.’ Another user said: ‘The drivers are punctual and friendly, making the journeys enjoyable.’

“Among other comments we have had were: ‘Goldsworth Care is brilliant – they always find a driver to take me to my destination’ and ‘the people at Goldsworth Care are always so kind and patient’.”

Goldsworth Care service users and volunteers celebrated the charity’s 25th anniversary with an afternoon tea, where they tucked into sandwiches, scones with jam and cream, and strawberries all provided by the group, as well as cakes courtesy of Waitrose.

The charity stressed that it would not exist without volunteers to answer the phone, deal with the admin and drive the clients – and it is always grateful for help from new volunteers.

A volunteer explained: “You are not committed to a specific day or time each week, you can choose the assignments that suit you best, which is important to me.”

Another volunteer added: “The commitment is not too onerous: answering the phone and following up on three or four mornings a month, or driving once or twice a week, mainly locally but possibly as far as Ashford Hospital.”

The volunteers all agreed that it is very satisfying to do something valuable for other people and to hear appreciation of the help they give.

One said: “It’s a pleasure to be able to use my skills to help others now I am retired – and the social side is enjoyable.”

Irene said: “If you would like to be a part of this great team, come along to one of the regular meetings on the second Wednesday of each month at 10am in Andy’s Café, which is within St Andrew’s Church at Goldsworth Park Centre, or contact us on 07751 801587.”

Residents of Goldsworth Park who think they would benefit from Goldsworth Care’s services are also welcome to call 07751 801587. The phone is answered from 10am to 12 noon on Mondays to Fridays and at other times callers can record a message.

The last word comes from one of Goldsworth Care’s users: “I cannot thank the wonderful team at Goldsworth Care enough for their kindness and support.”