MILFORD-based actress Penelope Keith took centre stage at The Clockhouse to unveil the day centre’s much-needed new minibus.

The star of the 1970s BBC comedy The Good Life is also president of the thriving Milford-based centre, which has 350 members from a wide catchment area that extends to Chiddingfold, and needs two minibuses to gather everyone together.

When the centre’s second minibus gave up the ghost, the centre had to lease a replacement. Thanks to eight months of hard fundraising and grants from Surrey County Council, Witley and Chiddingfold parish councils as well as other major donors, the day centre, which is part-funded by Waverley Borough Council, was able to buy the 17-seater VW Crafter.

The ex-demonstrator, with just over 2,000 miles, cost £48,495 is in excellent condition and has all the fittings, including a tail-lift for wheelchairs.

“We are delighted with our new minibus,” Clockhouse manager Jessica Hilsdon said. “Our two minibuses are crucial to getting members to and from the centre every day.

“We rely on fundraising and have a busy programme of events including film evenings, lectures and quizzes. We also hire the venue out.”