Driver gives free rides to elderly getting their vaccine

Matt Malone, 49, of Malones Executive Private Hire in Tiptree, is kindly offering his new Cab and Jab service to Tiptree residents.

A typical round trip from Tiptree to the Colchester vaccination centres usually costs about £18 but Matt is choosing to waive the fee to help out the vulnerable.

With eight people already helped out so far, he hopes to keep the community spirit going.

With airport transfers and London runs on hold, Matt found himself sitting at home with nothing to do.

He said: “At first I put a thing on social media saying I would have a free of service trip to and from Tiptree Medical Centre for elderly residents.

“There’s not like a local bus service which can take them.

“But I had to amend it when I found out the centre weren’t doing them just yet.

“I still wanted to offer the service to Colchester.

“At least I’m doing something to help people out. How are they supposed to get there otherwise?”

As well as transporting passengers, Matt gets regularly tested for Covid to make sure it is safe to travel in his cab.

The generous scheme has caught the attention of businesses who have donated money towards his running costs, and helped him advertise, and Tiptree Volunteers will also donate their time to support him.

A PayPal funding page has also been set up for him so residents can donate to him too.

He added: “The donations have been rolling in for me to do this and it’s just fantastic.

“It’s given me a new lease of life because I’ve been at home doing nothing.

“I’m now able to help so many people.

“I’m blown away with all the response and all the kind messages on this community page.

“I’m also blown away with all the kind donations and support people have given.

“The village is just superb.”

So far, he has received more than £400 which could fund more than 20 round trips for those in need.

To donate, visit paypal.me/pools/c/8wx8L5COZI.

To book a ride, call 07725 658105.