A reduction in mileage rates for volunteers could see a community car scheme cut its service.
Mike Bailey, who is stepping down as the co-ordinator of the scheme in Baschurch in October, has warned the service may be limited to medical trips only if drivers feel they are unable to cope with increased costs.
He is also concerned at the lack of a replacement co-ordinator for the post which he has held for six years.
The scheme provides lifts to people who need help getting around in Baschurch and surrounding villages including Harmer Hill, Myddle, Weston Lullingfields, Nesscliffe and Ruyton-XI-Towns.
Mr Bailey has written to the Treasury in response to the mileage reduction for volunteers from 42.47 pence to 40 pence which came into effect in September last year.
He said the Treasury had responded to his letter stating the mileage costs were never intended to cover the costs of all cars but must instead strike a balance between covering costs and discouraging the unnecessary use of cars.
Mr Bailey said: “Our drivers are mostly retired though so they don’t want the hassle of filling out tax returns and changing their insurance from pleasure to business use. Already people are expressing concern now they are making a loss.”
The scheme has 12 drivers with six to eight available at any one time.
Mr Bailey said that although he was stepping down to have a break from running the scheme he would still be involved, collating monthly claim forms and driving.
Anne Howls, clerk of Baschurch Parish Council, said the council had received a letter from MP Owen Paterson supporting the scheme. She added they were now looking into what could be done to continue the service.
Anyone interested in the role of co-ordinator or in driving for the scheme can phone Matt Johnson on 01743 253315.
