North Berwick Day Centre has surpassed its fundraising target for a new bus thanks to a £5,000 donation from a housing developer.

The group has been progressing long-standing plans to replace its bus, to allow members transport to and from the centre.

And now, thanks to a £5,000 donation from CALA Homes, which is undertaking work in the town, the centre is now able to buy the bus it needs.

Carol Wicker, co-ordinator at North Berwick Day Centre, said: “We have been completely overwhelmed by the kindness of everyone who has contributed to our fundraising efforts over the past few months.

“We’ve held a variety of events but never could have dreamed of raising in excess of £60,000.” And with the donation from CALA taking the group over its target, Carol added they had turned their attentions towards getting a bus “even better than the one we originally had in mind”.

She added: “Everyone is really excited about the prospect of a new bus and we hope that we will be able to organise more day trips once it arrives.

“It’s great to see a company like CALA really help the local community in the area where it builds and I’d like to thank them for their good will and generosity.” The day centre has been running a prolonged campaign to raise £60,000 for a new bus, and through community events, fundraisers, and now the donation from CALA, hasreached its target.

Rod Howat from CALA attended a recent fundraiser at the centre, where he handed over a cheque to delighted members.