Community group members are getting behind the wheel after receiving a grant towards driving lessons.

Knowsley Housing Trust has provided funding so two members of Torrington Drive Community Association in Halewood can learn to drive a minibus.

Once they have passed their test they will be able to hire minibuses to take residents on day trips rather than paying for costly coaches.

Association secretary Gary See, 24, who lives on the Torrington Drive Estate, is one of those taking the driving lessons along with treasurer and vice chairman Gary Connor.

He said: “We organise two days out for residents a year but we have to pay for expensive coach hire.

“We have had to ask people for £3-£5 towards the cost. But being able to drive a minibus ourselves will mean we will be able to reduce the costs to the community.

“The trips are very popular. Last month we took a coach to Blackpool to see the Illuminations and in September we went to Llandudno.”

Gary’s family has been involved with the association for many years and he started helping out when he was 12. His younger brother Tony, 14, also volunteers his time and received the Young Citizen of the Year award at KHT’s Community Impact Awards in September for his efforts.

“We want to provide activities for all members of the community and it will also allow us to support other community groups who need minibus drivers,” Gary added.

“KHT gave us a the money to do this but it is an investment that will last a lifetime.”

Jenny O’Brien, from KHT, said: “Torrington Drive Community Association is very active in the local community and the day trips it provides are a great way of bringing neighbours of all ages together.

“Being able to hire a minibus and drive it themselves will be much cheaper than hiring a coach and will mean more people will be able to afford a day out.”