THEY have carried out more than 1,000 good turns this year and the search is on for more volunteers.

The Winchester Good Neighbours group expects demand for services to soar as local authorities struggle to balance their books.

Its sister groups in Twyford, Alresford and the Worthys carried out more than 1,000 neighbourly tasks this year between them.

The Winchester group performed around 500, but organisers believe the actual demand is at least double that figure.

The tasks carried out include driving people to and from hospital and other medical appointments.

It also covers small practical tasks in the home like changing a light bulb or tuning a television.

The good neighbours also collect shopping, library books and prescriptions for the elderly and vulnerable.

The organisation has four teams in Winchester covering the city centre, Winnall, Teg Down and Oliver’s Battery.

It hopes to launch four more in 2012 if enough volunteers come forward. They would cover Badger Farm, Weeke, Fulflood and Abbots Barton The Winchester group is led by Lou Lewis from Oliver’s Battery, who said providing lifts is one of their main jobs.

He said: “The rate of cuts is sometimes faster than voluntary groups can fill the gap. There have been lots of cuts in care and public transport.

“More than ever, transport has become a key need for those who wish to be independent in their own homes.

“The swathing cuts in public and medical transport have caused many to suffer social and in some cases medical isolation.”

He added: “We know that we need to be ready to respond to the hardships which will undoubtedly face not just the older members of the community but those who have become disadvantaged due to job losses and financial hardships.”

He said many of their existing volunteers were recently retired, and gave up a few hours each month.

“The more volunteers we have, the more they will be able to do,” he added.

Volunteers do not have to make a regular commitment, but could find themselves in line for an award if they go the extra mile.

Residents who receive help are currently being invited by Hampshire County Council to nominate those who should be saluted.

It is part of the council’s Good Neighbour Awards which will be held at the Great Hall in Winchester on Tuesday, March 27.

Now in its eighth year, the contest is backed by Age Concern Hampshire, Carers Together, Brendoncare Club Hampshire, the Good Neighbours Support Service and WRVS.

Entry forms can be downloaded at www3.hants.gov.uk/adult-services/bettertime/goodneighbourawards.htm and the closing date is Friday, January 27.

As for the Winchester Good Neighbours group, call 0845 094 8946 and ask for the duty team co-ordinator to find out more.