A community transport service has launched in Ammanford.

The official launch of Our Opportunity To Travel/ Ein Cyfle I Deithio was held at Ty Dyffryn in Ammanford on Friday, March 1.

The new service is managed by Llandysul a Phont Tyweli Ymlaen Cyf (LPTY), a Carmarthenshire/Ceredigion community transport group that were recently successful in securing funding £98,300 from Big Lottery Community Fund to deliver a community transport service in the Ammanford area.

The funding has enabled the group to purchase two fully accessible 16 seat minibus which will allow residents to attend doctors appointments, town centres and community clubs.

The Older Peoples Commissioner for Wales Helena Herklots and service users were on hand to help launch the new service.

Residents of Ty Dyffryn and other guests listened to a presentation about the project with various guest speakers who all championed the service.

Helena Herklots CBE, who cut the ribbon, said: “One of the biggest issues facing older people in Wales in transport.

“It is fantastic to be part of the launch of the new mini buses.

“These mini buses are important because they are part of the community. It is magical because they are going to become a community on wheel.

“It’s not just about the journey from A to B but also the chat, laughter, singing and jokes that go on inside the mini bus whilst travelling.

“Some people get anxious attending medical appointments on public transport, but the community transport is going to reduce anxiety of going out”

LPTY Chairman Tom Cowcher added: “This is a very special day for our organisation.

“The minibus will provide organisations in Ammanford with access to essential community services and can be used to help groups and communities promote cohesion, social inclusion, regeneration, rural health, wellbeing”.

He went on to thank The Lottery for the funding and Family Housing at Ty Dyfryn for their support.

For more information on the minibuses or driver training, please contact the office on 01559362403, 07771814401 or visit dolenteifi.org.uk.