PEOPLE living in isolated rural communities across Wear Valley and Teesdale were given a transport lifeline yesterday.

A community minibus service launched by botanist and conservationist Dr David Bellamy is the first major achievement for the Weardale Community Transport (WCT) project and the Weardale Community Partnership. The 14-seat vehicle, which has space for two wheelchair users, can be hired for 85p a mile, either with driver Gary Gregory-Smith or on a self-drive basis.

Called the Healthy Living Partnership Minibus, it is the result of a recent agreement between WCT and the Durham Dales Healthy Living Partnership and is funded by the Big Lottery Fund with support from Durham County Council and the Durham Dales Primary Care Trust.

Residents in isolated villages often find transport an obstacle to finding a job or training, keeping doctor's appointments, taking their children to school or attending social events.

WCT's co-ordinator Bob Dennis said: "This will mean that groups of people can get together and arrange a shopping trip, for example, or go out for lunch or to an educational class.

"It means that residents in small communities need no longer be isolated.

"There are health benefits underpinning the project because it helps people to socialise. Prevention is better that cure."

Frieda Diplock, from the trust, said: "This project will represent a tangible link with community members and groups across both Wear Valley and Teesdale in addressing their transport needs."

Dr Bellamy, who lives near Hamsterley, said: "We are losing our social cohesion as post offices and shops close and rural communities are experiencing more and more isolation.

"Instead of sitting back and letting it happen, this is actually doing something about it and giving something back."