COMMUNITY transport provider Gala Wheels is issuing a plea for help to raise the final funds needed to buy a new wheelchair-adapted minibus.

Run by community development organisation, The Bridge, Gala Wheels was formed just over 10 years ago to provide affordable, accessible transport for disabled and elderly residents in the central Scottish Borders.

It runs a membership scheme, offering social transport to individuals, care homes and disability organisations, and is delivered by a dedicated team of volunteer drivers.

Gala Wheels also offers its primarily disabled and elderly customers the opportunity of social trips and excursions, as well as providing transport to health and hospital appointments and transport to respite care.

The service is subsidised by Scottish Borders Council, but Gala Wheels has to rely on donations and grants to purchase new vehicles.

Gala Wheels Executive Officer Morag Walker told us: “Following a successful fundraising campaign, we were delighted to receive financial pledges from both local and national charities, service users and supporters.

"Ideally, this final push for donations will help us to secure the £4000 we need to purchase a new vehicle before the winter and enable Gala Wheels to maintain and expand its current service."

Gala Wheels currently provides two minibuses, each seating up to seven passengers.

The busy and popular service runs seven days a week and is currently operating at maximum capacity, which is why a larger, 11-seater vehicle is needed.

They have raised more than £30,000 for the minibus, but still need another £4,000.

Speaking after paying a visit to the service, John Lamont MP said: “Reducing social isolation by keeping people engaged in the community is an absolute necessity in places like the Borders.

"Community transport providers, like Gala Wheels do incredible work, without them, many people would simply not be leaving their homes.

“While it’s good that Scottish Borders Council continues to do what it can to help with the day to day running costs, Gala Wheels still has to rely on the generosity of others and charitable trusts to upgrade its fleet.

“The team have worked hard to raise most of the money they need and are really close to achieving that. Hopefully with a bit more publicity, the final bit of money can be found.”