THE DORCHESTER Disabled Club is getting crafty as it embarks on its latest fundraising drive.

The club, which supports 30 members in the county town, is holding a Christmas craft fayre at Dorchester's Corn Exchange on Saturday to raise funds for a new set of wheels.

After several years of fundraising the group was able to buy an adapted minibus at a cost of £47,500, which it took delivery of in May last year.

The new vehicle was intended to replace its existing one, which was purchased in 2000 but because the club had enough volunteer drivers and plenty of demand, it has been running both vehicles, enabling it to reach more people.

The scheme has proved a success with the buses also used by members of the Dorchester Stroke Club, the Dorset Blind Club, two local church groups, residents of Magna flats in Dorchester and Charminster and three nursing homes.

Chairman Graham Curtis said: “Our drivers also do a door-to-door monthly shopping trip into Dorchester from four outlying villages, which is greatly appreciated by villagers who cannot walk to the bus stop.”

The older vehicle now needs replacing and the club has to raise even more than it did last time.

Mr Curtis said: “Unfortunately we now have to replace our 15-year-old bus at a cost of £55,000 – a daunting amount.

“However, we are nearly halfway but the remainder gets more difficult.”

So far this year funds have been raised through a sponsored challenge called Tough Mudder, tombolas at public events and a coffee morning.

The craft fayre at the Corn Exchange on Saturday will hope to add to the total.

The event will run from 10am to 1pm and will be opened and supported by Mayor and Mayoress of Dorchester Robin and Val Potter.

There will be more than 20 different stalls for people to browse.

Mr Curtis said the group is also keen to hear from anyone who is willing to support its fundraising efforts.

He said: “We hope that you will consider giving us a donation towards this bus which will help so many elderly people in Dorchester.”

The Dorchester Disabled Club holds twice monthly meetings in the town with a speaker or musical entertainment and also runs day out.

The vehicles providing transport for people to get to the groups are vital.

Anyone who would like to support the club’s fundraising can contact Irene Calcutt on 01305 263085.