Transport group founder is honoured (From Messenger Newspapers)

Bowdon resident awarded the MBE

10:00am Wednesday 20th June 2012 in News

A BOWDON resident who set up a successful scheme to ensure people can attend their hospital appointments has been recognised in the Queen's Birthday Honours List.

Kaye Gardner, aged 69, has been awarded the MBE for her services to the voluntary sector.

The recognition comes nearly 15 years after she launched the Voluntary Transport Group, which provides drivers to ferry people with mobility problems to and from hospitals and clinics.

It has 35 volunteer drivers and 400 people on its books - and has helped more than 1,000 patients over the years.

She has also played a leading role with a number of other charities - including the NSPCC, Sue Ryder, the Pat Seed Appeal Fund, and the Friends of Rosie - which raised a staggering £1.5m for research into childhood cancer.

Kaye, aged 69, said of the honour: "I have had a difficult time with illness this year, so this was a lovely surprise.

"It is extremely nice to be recognised like this and people have been very kind in their congratulations.

"But it is not just me - I have had a lot of help from others with my work in the community."

She believes these community efforts sum up Prime Minister David Cameron's vision of a 'Big Society'.

Kaye is married to John, aged 75, and the couple have four grown-up children and eight grandchildren.

Kaye added: "Two of my grandchildren, Sam (aged 12) and Sally (aged 10), were very excited when they heard the news. Sally came to St Mary's Church service with me on Sunday to celebrate."