A COUNCIL day centre has been presented with a new minibus thanks to fundraising efforts based on Alan Sugar’s Apprentice TV programme.
Chester’s Mulberry Centre received the new transport from the Friends of Mulberry at a special ceremony.
A group of service users and staff from the centre devised an ‘Apprentice Challenge’ with everyone taking part in three teams.
The teams started with an initial £30 with the goal of being the team with the most money at the end.
Events arranged during the challenge included a walk up Mount Snowdon, car boot sales, disco nights, BBQs and even a family history night.
The winning team made an impressive £7,000.
The Friends of Mulberry started their fundraising in October 2010 when one of the current vehicles at the centre had begun to show signs of age.
The group organises regular events including Christmas and summer fairs and also contacts local businesses asking for donations and support.
“It’s a wonderful achievement by everyone involved,” said the council’s executive member for adult social care and health, Cllr Brenda Dowding.
“The ‘Apprentice Challenge’ exceeded all our expectations.
“I’m delighted that the new vehicle will allow service users at the Mulberry to carry on being able to make use of local leisure facilities and bring a greater degree of independence to their everyday lives.”
The minibus was presented to the centre by Annwen Blinston, fundraising secretary of the Friends of Mulberry Trustees committee.
Centre manager Elaine Downes accepted the keys on behalf of service users and staff.
