A FORMER soldier is to go on a route march for the charity he loves which helps elderly people keep their independence and leave their homes.

Brian Cornes of Warndon Villages is a volunteer driver for Worcester Wheels but wants to go that extra mile, quite literally, for clients.

The 75-year-old wants to raise at least £1,000 for the community transport service which provides vital services for people who live in and around the city and rural villages, who find it difficult to access other forms of transport.

With friend Bill Davies, Mr Cornes hopes to complete the 32.5 miles along the Worcestershire Way from Bewdley to Malvern to raise funds on May 21.

They have walked together the South West Coast Path and Mr Cornes has also walked the Cotswold Way. 

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Mr Cornes served in the Royal Corps of Transport for 22 years between 1970 and 1992, rising to the rank of garrison sergeant and completing several tours in Northern Ireland.

He has been a volunteer with Worcester Wheels since 2015, working one day a week, which only ceased during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Mr Cornes, who also collects for the Royal British Legion as part of the Poppy Appeal, said, after leaving the Army, he always wanted to 'support something'.

He approached the driver when he saw a Worcester Wheels minibus parked at Crowngate bus station. He says he loves the role which can involve supporting elderly people, driving them to hospital, doctor's appointments and to the shops.

"I love walking. I'm looking forward to it. People in Worcester and the people who live around Worcester are very good and generous," he said.

He added: "I have decided to take on this challenge on behalf of Worcester Wheels as I see every week the difference it makes to so many people living in Worcester.

"It offers a door-to-door transport service whilst also offering events, trips and soon to be a friendship hub. Many of the clients using the service often say without Worcester Wheels they would not be able to leave their home, see their friends, manage their own shopping and so much more.  Worcester Wheels aid independence."

We provide a ‘dial a ride’ service between the hours of 8am and 4.30pm. We provide door-to-door service taking our members wherever they wish to go. We build relationships with all of our clients, providing reassurance and support throughout their journey.

To support him visit https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/brian-cornes