A YOUTH group has raised more than £23,000 for a minibus that will be used by organisations across the community.

The 2nd Widnes Boys Brigade carried out activities like climbing Mount Snowdon to help raise the cash, while an adult member raised £2,500 through sponsorship with his employer, the Bank of America.

The Trust was among the local community organisations who helped the Brigade reach its target with a £3,000 grant.

A further £2,000 was awarded from Halton Borough Council’s Area Forum, £7,000 from the Church and Community Fund and £6,175 from Awards For All.

“The Boys Brigade set themselves an ambitious target and we were only too happy to help them reach their goal,” said Noel Sharpe, Executive Director of Customer Services at Halton Housing Trust.

“Our aim is always to support and improve the quality of life for the wider communities in which we work and this minibus will bring big benefits for groups across Widnes.”

The Boys Brigade’s fundraising campaign started last June after they met Councillor Pamela Wallace who encouraged them to try and raise enough cash for a brand new, fully accessible minibus, rather than a second-hand vehicle.

The Brigade worked with the Council’s Community Development officer Adele Clarke to apply to various groups for funding.

The Boys Brigade will use the bus for any trips they take but it will also be used by the wider West Bank community including North West Bank Primary School, West Bank Community Forum and The Pensioners Club.

“Having a new minibus will make the world of difference to our group and will ensure safe, comfortable journeys for all who use it,” said David Millington, captain of the Boys Brigade.

“We had a lot of money to raise and couldn’t have done it without the help of all the organisations who gave funding so we are very grateful.”