TOWN and parish councils in Worcestershire have been slow take up an offer of money from the Countryside Agency to improve transport in rural areas.

The agency is offering town and parish councils grants of up to £10,000 for each project as well as free consultancy for three days to find ways to solve rural transport problems.

The agency has given money to schemes such as "dial-a-ride", community minibuses and travel tokens throughout the West Midlands.

"Some town and parish councils have been quick to see the opportunities this scheme presents," said Mike Grace, West Midlands regional director of the Countryside Agency.

"But in Herefordshire and Worcestershire, where transport needs are particularly acute, the take-up rate has been disappointing."

From Monday, September 2, the Countryside Agency will hold a Parish Transport week to try and draw attention to the grants on offer.

"We are hoping we can encourage councillors to look at what's on offer and get in touch," said Mr Grace.

"Whether people need to travel to health centres, to work, to leisure facilities or to their nearest market town, a better range of transport options for all ages is a vital way to support the rural economy."

A total of £380,000 is available to parish and town councils in the West Midlands.

Previous projects have included a community minibus for Ryton on Dunsmore, in Warwickshire.

The service was originally set up to help the elderly and disabled reach the local doctor's surgery.

The minibus now provides transport for the whole community to neighbouring villages, as well as Rugby and Coventry.

Further information is available from the transport team at the Countryside Agency on 0121 233 9399, or at www.countryside.gov.uk