A community transport charity in Nefyn is celebrating the drivers and volunteers who keep people moving on Pen Llŷn.

O Ddrws i Ddrws provides subsidised door-to-door transport for residents across the rural areas of Pen Llŷn, and plays a vital role helping older people, disabled people of all ages and those facing disadvantage stay connected and independent.

Alongside its core transport work, O Ddrws i Ddrws also runs community initiatives such as Stwna, which supports wellbeing and reduces loneliness and operates the seasonal fflecsi service, widening access for all residents and visitors during peak months.

Praise for the service came during Community Transport Week (12-16 October), led by the Community Transport Association. This year’s theme, Driving Communities Forward, shone a spotlight on the drivers, volunteers and staff who support communities.

Michelle Clarke, Deputy Director of Wales, Community Transport Association, visited O Ddrws i Ddrws to find out more about their recent developments, achievements and talk about future opportunities.

Michelle said: “It was wonderful to visit, to hear about the great work taking place at O Ddrws i Ddrws, and to meet the dedicated staff team who make it happen. Community Transport services really are a lifeline in rural communities and, during my visit to the charity’s offices in Nefyn, I met a passenger who said the reason she has been able to remain independent is because of this invaluable service.”

O Ddrws i Ddrws operates seven vehicles, most of which are wheelchair accessible, and employs nine part-time drivers. The charity provides essential journeys to healthcare appointments, social activities and everyday services that would otherwise be out of reach for many residents. Between January and June this year, the organisation completed over 1,000 journeys.

Passengers regularly praise the kindness and care shown by drivers. One of O Ddrws i Ddrws regular service users said: “The drivers are wonderful - they help a lot, they can’t do enough for us”.

Another service user commented: “It’s nice that the drivers are local and they know you - you can chat away.”

The charity also benefits from the commitment of its volunteer Board members, who give their time and expertise to help steer the organisation and make sure we continue to meet local needs.

Huw Ceiriog, General Manager at O Ddrws i Ddrws, said: “Our drivers and Board volunteers go above and beyond. The drivers don’t just provide transport – they offer reassurance, kindness and connection.

“Our volunteer board members give their time and expertise to guide the organisation; their commitment behind the scenes is invaluable, and we’re deeply grateful for the support they provide.

“The team made use of the Community Transport Week to say thank the staff team and volunteers. Their commitment helps older people, disabled people of all ages and those facing disadvantage to stay independent and remain part of community life. We’re incredibly proud of the difference they make across Pen Llŷn.”

To find out more about O Ddrws i Ddrws, visit www.oddrwsiddrws.cymru or call 01758 721777.