A NEW lottery has been launched to support one of Royston’s best-loved charities.

Royston and District Community Transport has started the lottery to raise funds to purchase a new mini bus and to fund other projects being undertaken by the charity.

Having been initially launched as “100 club” last month, the scheme has proved so successful that it has now been extended to a “300 club” with new members joining all the time.

David Wherrell, manager of Royston and District Community Transport, is delighted with the way the lottery has taken off.

He said: “It’s been a fantastic response and we’re most grateful to everyone who is supporting us.”

The community transport scheme provides door-to-door transport for people living in Crow country who are unable to use conventional public transport and do not have the use of a car.

Volunteer drivers provide transport using their own cars, though the scheme also operates two wheelchair-accessible minibuses.

Two of these volunteer drivers, Pat and Brian Johnson, from Reed, have organised the lottery having recently become the charity’s official fund-raisers.

Mr Wherrell said: “They both drive for us and Pat already helps out in the office, so it’s great that they have taken this on as well. It’s the old adage that if you want something done, ask a busy person.”

The first draw took place at Collingwood Court residential home in Royston, with the home’s oldest resident, 100-year-old Ellen Howard, picking the lucky winner.

She selected Pat King, from Whittlesford, to win the first £25 monthly prize.

“Pat is one of our volunteer drivers and I’m delighted that she won the prize,” said Mr Wherrell.

Membership of the 300 Club is £12 a year, and draws are made monthly, with two prizes of £25 and £15 and an additional quarterly prize of £50. Anyone wishing to join the club should contact Royston and District Community Transport office on 01763 245228.