A WEST Somerset village where the bus calls just twice a day - and never on Sundays - is hoping to secure Lottery funding to transform its transport links.

Timberscombe is in the running for a £50,000 windfall from the People's Millions, a partnership between Big Lottery and television company ITV.

If successful, the cash would buy a 14-seater minibus and cover the first 12 months of running the vehicle - including fuel.

John Goodall, chairman of the Orchard Social Club, based at the Magna Housing Association sheltered housing complex in the village, is behind the bid.

"We are desperate for transport," he said.

"There's a bus that goes out from the village at 8.30am and another back at 5.30pm but that's only six days a week.

"It's impossible to try and organise hospital appointments and other things to tie in with those times."

Although the club has come up with the minibus scheme, the vehicle, which would be manned by volunteer drivers, would be available to all groups in the village.

"Hiring a minibus is so expensive," said Mr Goodall.

"This would be a lifeline not only for club trips but for church groups, the gardening club and even the school.

"The need is so great."

However, the project needs public support to secure the cash.

It will go head to head with another project in Cornwall on November 26 during a broadcast on ITV at 6pm.

People will be able to vote for their favourite scheme throughout the day but unfortunately the number to ring will not be available until the previous evening.

"I'm just hoping that as many people as possible will watch the programme and vote," said Mr Goodall.

"This is such a fantastic opportunity for Timberscombe but we need everyone's support."

Photos: Steve Guscott