A PERSONALISED taxi-style companion service all the way from New Zealand has opened a new franchise in Calne.

Driving Miss Daisy UK is a companion driving service aiming to make life easier for those who find getting out and about difficult, feel slightly isolated or simply need extra support.

Customers can be collected from their door, driven to their destination and provided with whatever help they may require before being taken home again.

Melanie Turner, franchise owner, said: “It’s that personal service that we are really focusing on. Having that personal service where the driver will go in with you if needed just gives that extra reassurance to customers.

“A lady with mobility issues contacted us recently saying she needed the doctor but had a young child, so we dropped her off at the doctors and went to the park with her child before picking her up later.

"It's all very exciting, the more cars we can get on the road the better, in New Zealand everyone knows what a Daisy is."

Every Daisy Driver is licensed, safety checked and first-aid accredited, and the Daisy cars are spacious and well maintained to ensure a reliable service.

Having originated in New Zealand, Driving Miss Daisy began operating in the UK around a year ago and already has franchises in Hampshire, Dorset and Surrey.

Melanie Harper, founder of the business in New Zealand, said: "We're delighted that Driving Miss Daisy has arrived in the UK and we're confident that the service will bring as many benefits to communities here as it has in New Zealand.

"We're passionate about helping people live life to the full and maintaining their independence while providing peace of mind to both clients and their families.

“There's a real and growing need by many people for this form of transport and we're looking forward to Daisy cars becoming a regular sight on the UK's roads.”

The Driving Miss Daisy service have also introduced gift vouchers and a loyalty scheme and are hoping to start a second franchise in Lower Compton soon.

To find out more about the Driving Miss Daisy service including franchise and driving opportunities, you can attend their official launch at Marden House on April 17 between 12-2 where franchise owner Melanie and franchise manager Emma will be on hand to answer questions.

To pre-book a ride call franchise manager Emma on 01249 478335 or 07525 873 017 or email: calne@drivingmissdaisyUK.co.uk