Generous donations have allowed a community transport group to purchase a new wheelchair accessible vehicle.

Beccles and Bungay Area Community Transport (BACT) recently launched a £50,000 fundraising appeal to replace an ageing minibus and to purchase a new wheelchair accessible vehicle.

The appeal has got off to a dream start following donations from the Bungay Medical Centre Charitable Trust, a legacy from a passenger and donations from individuals and groups, which has allowed BACT to purchase a wheelchair accessible vehicle, which is just two years old.

Debbie Blowers, BACT manager, said: 'We are delighted the appeal has got off to such an amazing start, it is a dream come true. We cannot thank the donors enough for their support and generosity which will help so many local people.'

BACT helps hundreds of people who have no access to other forms of transport – such as the elderly, the rurally isolated and those with impaired mobility to carry out vital tasks.

In the last year alone the 67 volunteers have covered 330,000 miles delivering 34,000 passenger trips.

The group currently has three minibuses and three smaller wheelchair accessible vehicles, but they still need to raise a further £36,000 to replace an ageing eight-year-old minibus.

Mrs Blowers said: 'Despite the fantastic start to the appeal we still have a long way to go. Demand for our service is growing all the time so it is vital all our vehicles are fit for purpose and road worthy at all times. We will be holding fundraising events and raising money through our minibus money boxes and our 100 club for the new vehicle, but if anyone can offer any support at all we would be very grateful.'

To support the fundraising appeal call 01986 896896 or email bact@connect.com

•Have you got a story from the Beccles or Bungay area? Email louisa.lay@archant.co.uk