A DEDICATED volunteer who has been the driving force behind a lifeline transport service is stepping down after a quarter of a century of service.

Gourock man Callum Boyd has been the transport convenor and a voluntary driver with the Inverclyde Voluntary Council of Social Services for the last 25 years.

In that time he has helped keep the voluntary group on the road and ferried the most vulnerable people in the area to and from key medical appointments.

Now as he nears 80-years-old, he has decided to retire and finally step away from the steering wheel.

His friends at the voluntary transport service gathered together to give him a fitting send off.

Humble Callum, of Margaret Street, said: "I am 80 next month and I think it is the right time to step back and pass the baton on. I stopped driving the buses a few years ago.

"It is very sad, but it is the right time to go.

"I have enjoyed my time with the IVCSS and I have met so many great people. I will miss them all.

"I would like to thank all of those who have helped us along the way. I've loved all the people we've had on our buses, I really enjoyed chatting to them all on our journeys."

As transport convenor, Callum was at the sharp end of the operations, ensuring that there were voluntary drivers to cover shifts and meeting the needs of the disabled and elderly passengers.

The IVCSS runs has a fleet of more than 20 buses, providing a transport service for children and adults with additional support needs from its base in Lynedoch Street.

They have survived in the face of cuts to their grants - as well as Covid - thanks to the support of their sponsors and local people.

Chairman David Terrey said: "I don't think I am speaking out of turn to say the IVCSS has been synonymous with Callum Boyd.

"He has been a stalwart for 25 years and has put in hours and hours of tireless work and has always available when required.

"Due to his dedication, support and love of the job, IVCSS has significantly improved its reputation within the Inverclyde community.

"He is highly respected by his peers and also by those outside of our organisation. He has personally been of great help and a real support to me as chairman and to all the management committee."

Callum, who worked in IBM and spent over 40 years as a Boys' Brigade officer, is hoping to spend more time with wife Wilma, son Alan and his two grandchildren Logan and Ailsa.