A KEIGHLEY-based couple’s service is helping older people and others without access to their own transport recover their mobility and independence.

Local franchise managers, husband and wife team Martin and Sally Kounnas set up driving companion service Driving Miss Daisy nearly one and a half years ago.

The brand provides companion driving services for the elderly, children, disabled and anyone else who is unable to drive. It was inspired by the Academy Award winning film of the same name.

The Keighley couple’s franchise has not only made a positive impression on Keighley district, but has made an impact as far afield as Bridlington, Scarborough, Whitby and Preston.

Mr Kounnas explained: “I ran a business in Keighley for 15 years and my wife Sally is an former nurse, so we’ve always enjoyed working with people.

“We set up Driving Miss Daisy in February last year with just two cars, but demand has required us to grow our fleet.

“We’ve been working alongside Keighley’s Dementia Friendly Society. We make regular trips to the three hospitals in the area and transport people to medical appointments, to attend weddings, funerals and to various tourist hotspots.”

Mr Kounnas added Driving Miss Daisy had been well received by the elderly and those who care for them.

He explained this was because the service’s companion drivers give clients back their independence in a “reliable, safe and secure environment.”

He said the service’s ethos is: “We’re family when family can’t be there”, noting that the scheme is invaluable when so many family members are struggling to provide support.

“Every one of our drivers is first-aid qualified and is presently engaging in dementia awareness courses and the Daisy cars are adapted to accommodate wheelchairs,” he said.

“We’re privileged to be able to offer our service to anyone who needs our care and companionship – ranging from children through to the elderly and all ages in between.

“We are very happy to help, work and support family units.”

Mr Kounnas said the service’s vehicles are prominently adorned with the brand’s daisy symbol and the drivers are affectionately known as “Daisies”.

Sally-Ann Hall-Jones, whose 73-year-old mother Susan Symmonds uses the Keighley branch of the service, said: “Mr mother has been using it since November 2017.

“She lives in Baildon and as I live over 200 miles away in Basingstoke, it gives me peace of mind to know a number of her everyday needs are being met by this service.

“My mother is registered as disabled. Sadly, in December her partner passed away but Driving Miss Daisy were there to support her with hospital visits prior to his passing.

“They even attended his funeral in person. They’ve made a real difference to my mother’s daily routine, with their extraordinary support.”