A peninsula good neighbours scheme formed 17 years ago is in real danger of closing down.

The Shotley and Erwarton Good Neighbours Scheme is becoming so short of volunteers it has had to reduce its service, and there are fear it may have to shut down completely.

The scheme was started in 2015 to assist residents requiring support or assistance with such things as: transport to appointments; shopping; prescription pick up and other small tasks they are unable to do for themselves.  

For many Shotley and Erwarton residents it is a life-line to maintaining independence and secretary Debbie Dodds has appealed for more volunteers. 

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Mrs Dodds said: "The scheme is in danger of greatly reducing or closing the service due to the lack of volunteers.  

"Whilst we do have an amazing team of dedicated volunteers, we are in desperate need of more, especially those willing to drive to the hospital and into Ipswich. 

" We recently delivered 1,000 cards to residents asking for volunteers but sadly there were no responses, consequently we will simply not be able to carry on supporting as many residents as we currently do. 

"Becoming a volunteer for the scheme is very rewarding and I would ask again for you to consider joining our scheme.  

"If you do become a volunteer, we simply add you to our list and when we get a request for assistance we will ring you to ask if you are free to help. 

"If you are not, that is absolutely fine, we simply ring another volunteer.  There is no obligation what so ever to take on a task – it is only if you are free and able to do so that you are allocated the task.

"We do not want to reduce or close our service as we are very proud of the help we give our neighbours.  However, sadly we are at risk of doing so unless more volunteers come forward to help us keep it going.  "

Although this is a voluntary role, expenses are paid to cover the cost of fuel when taking people outside the villages.

If you are interested in helping save this essential service by becoming a volunteers please ring on 07799873881 for more information.