One of the founders of a group providing a lifeline service to elderly and isolated people in rural areas has been named Devon’s community transport volunteer of the year.

Alan Hutson was given the honour for his service to Ivybridge & District Community Transport Association.

He was described at the Devon County Council awards ceremony as “the embodiment of what volunteering is all about, giving an unstinting amount of time to help others, in a variety of ways and for many years”.

The council marked the 18th anniversary of its annual awards with a ceremony at County Hall in Exeter last week. Sponsored by local printers Pollards and GM Coachwork Group, the awards aim to recognise outstanding contributions to community transport in Devon.

The 10 winners were chosen from more than 50 nominations.

Alan was one of the driving forces behind the establishment of IDCTA when it started 25 years ago with one bus. He has served in all positions on the committee and worked tirelessly behind the scenes, and was instrumental in combining with the West Dart community bus service which was at risk of closure.

The association now has three community buses and 25 volunteer car drivers.

Alan said: “It’s a real privilege to carry the flag for community transport for a year. I just look at it as giving something back.

"Hopefully if more people do that it’ll make it a nicer place. We try to ensure people who live in the villages who might not otherwise be able to get to the shops, are able to get in to do their shopping, get to the doctors and to hospital appointments - the everyday transport needs people have.

"If we weren’t there a lot of people wouldn’t be able to stay in their own homes, which would cost the authorities to look after them. The passengers appreciate the service they get and it’s nice to think you’re making a difference.”

Devon County Council chairman Ray Radford, who presented the awards, said: “Community Transport services in the county provide essential opportunities for people to access health services, shopping and social activities and in some cases even helping people to get to work. The awards are testament to the fact that so much can be achieved by key individuals working within teams in their community.”

Ivybridge county councillor Roger Croad, who is responsible for community transport said: “The Community Transport Awards remind us of the enormous difference that small charities, and the local volunteers and staff who are part of them, can make to the everyday lives of the people in our county.

"Community transport is a highly valued service in Devon and it’s nice that their efforts can be recognised at this annual event.”