FUNDRAISERS are closing in on their target to buy a new Variety Sunshine coach for Sir Thomas Picton School.

The vehicle, which is specially adapted for pupils with special needs, costs £43,000 brand new.

Variety (the Children’s Charity) has agreed to fund £26,000 towards the new coach, with local supporters having to find £17,000.

Nicky Rogers, who works at Sir Thomas Picton’s special needs department, said: “We’ve collected about £14,000 so far and we’re hoping to get a loan from our business manager for the remaining £3,000. That means we can order the bus and hopefully get it by September.

“The Home School Association gave us £8,000, Ladies That Can’t Lunch held a jewellery day, and we’ve had lots of donations from local businesses and members of the public.”

The latest fundraiser was held at the Bristol Trader in Haverfordwest on Tuesday night (May 19), where owners Brian and Margaret Harries put the whole evening on for free. Guests enjoyed a meal of sausage and mash, along with some great music by John Roach. The event raised more than £750.

Jim Hughes, who has been a Variety International Barker for 43 years, said: “I’m absolutely delighted by the way the public have responded to the fundraising appeal.

“The current bus is in a terrible state, it can’t be used by the children as it has mushrooms growing in it.

"The new one will transport children with special needs on educational trips, and it is specially adapted for wheelchair users.”

If you would like to make a contribution to the new Sunshine coach, contact Nicky Rogers or Alison Gethin at Sir Thomas Picton School on 01437 765394.