A FLEET of volunteer drivers are needed to help disabled or elderly people reach their doctors' surgeries.

Anyone with a clean licence and a car can put themselves forward to help patients travel to and from appointments at surgeries in Sacriston, Pelton and Pelton Fell, in the Chester-le-Street district.

Volunteers will be reimbursed for the cost of petrol used during the trips.

Melanie White, from Chester-le-Street and District Volunteer Bureau said two GP surgeries had requested the service.

The bureau is waiting to hear if it has secured funding for the scheme, which will begin in November if enough drivers and people in need of the service are found. For details, call 0191-389 2947.