Drivers of 4x4 vehicles have been thanked by the council for helping carers make home visits during severe snow, but more volunteers are still needed in the Berkhamsted area.

Four-wheel drive owners took carers on 200 trips to see elderly and vulnerable people across Hertfordshire when heavy snow fell between January 6 and January 10, and again yesterday (January 13).

Hertfordshire County Council said some of the trips were up to six hours long and did not finish until late at night. 

Hertfordshire 4x4 Response, the county's fire service and countryside management service were involved in the effort.

The volunteer team at Hertfordshire 4x4 Response was placed on alert to deliver emergency blood supplies, dialysis equipment and Meals on Wheels, and to assist with car accidents, broken down vehicles and stranded motorists.

On January 7, Dacorum Borough Council also made an appeal for 4x4 drivers to assist with Meals on Wheels deliveries.

Richard Smith, Hertfordshire Council's executive member for adult care and health, said: "It is heart warming to see such selflessness from volunteers for Hertfordshire 4x4 Response and our own staff.

"Many older and vulnerable people have received the visits they need because of their dedication, and I'm sure they would join me in offering their gratitude to the volunteer drivers."

Hertfordshire 4x4 Response said it is keen to recruit new drivers to their organisation, particularly in the west of the county around Berkhamsted. Find out how you can help.

Photograph courtesy of Flickr.