Time is running out for community groups hoping to win a £40,000 minibus.
Hundreds of groups across the north and north-east have entered the Press and Journal’s competition to win a 17-seater Ford minibus.
To win the prize, sponsored by CNooc International, they have been rallying the support of their local community and collecting tokens featured daily in the paper.
But with the last tokens printed today, and the closing date of February 10 looming, groups are urging their supporters to get the last of their coupons to them as quickly as possible.
Among those hoping to win are Caithness Stroke Group, a team of 12 volunteers who work to improve the quality of life for those affected by stroke.
They meet every Tuesday but rely on a specially adapted rented bus to get them there.
This comes straight out of their own funds so any money left over afterwards is a “treat”. By having their own minibus, a whole new host of activities could be offered.
Fiona Murray, who runs the group, said: “It’s a fabulous group – they’re a great bunch of members.
“Confidence can be low after having a stroke, especially if your speech is affected. So it’s great to get together with other members who are in the same position.
“Speech can come on quite well in a social setting.”
There are currently 14 members who get together to enjoy activities such as indoor bowls, dominoes, arts and crafts and quizzes.
Ms Murray added: “If we won the competition, it would save us £200/£300 per month.
“The money all adds up and it would mean a huge saving for us.
“Our main costs are the hall and the bus so any extra funds we have left over are a treat.”
The group relies on fundraising to cover their costs, and Ms Murray said the savings that would come with winning the bus would help tackle the isolation stroke sufferers can feel.
Members of the community with tokens should hand them to their local groups as soon as possible.
Schools, sports groups, Guides, Scouts and charities are all hoping to win the bus. They can enter as many times as they like, but 50 tokens must be attached to each entry form.
Today is the last day of tokens. The closing date for entries is February 10.
