SIDMOUTH Living with Cancer support group now has �29,000 toward its mini-bus.

This means that with events planned, the group will have enough to pay for the vehicle, which has already been ordered.

“We now need to raise sufficient funds to run it for three years, which we are confident that we will achieve,” said group founder Bill Lankester.

David Clark, of Deansmead, recently celebrated his 80th birthday and suggested that instead of giving presents, his friends should make a donation to the mini-bus appeal. This raised �50. “We would like to thank David and his friends for their donations,” said Bill. “We do hope he had a happy day.”

An appeal for mini-bus drivers through the Herald’s Campaign 2010 has been successful. The group now has 13 volunteer drivers. “The response has been tremendous,” said Bill.

A medically-trained volunteer has also stepped up, to travel with the group if needed. More similarly trained helpers would be welcome.

The next fundraiser is a variety night at Branscombe Village Hall on September 30. It’s expected to be a sell-out so people should get their tickets from Evelyn Lankester on (01395) 577221 or Branscombe Post Office as soon as possible.