ALTON Community Centre has taken possession of a new, fully accessible minibus – and it’s all thanks to a £30,000 legacy left to the centre by former Alton woman Grace Atkinson.

This week, the minibus was brought into service, transporting members of the Alton Community Association’s community club to and from the centre.

The bus is also available for hire, privately or by other community groups.

The “windfall” donation came at an opportune moment for the Amery Street centre bosses whose minibus was on its last legs and in need of replacement.

In expressing grateful thanks, on behalf of Alton Community Association trustees and staff, centre manager Maria Elliott said: “It could not have been better timed. To say we are delighted would be an understatement. Finally we have been able to replace our old minibus with one that has heating and air-conditioning to make life more pleasant for our (elderly) community club members.”

And she added: “Adding: “We received £30,000 from the Grace Atkinson Trust and any money left over after the bus purchase will be used toward our ongoing building works.”

To hire the minibus or to find out about the new spring term leisure learning programme, room hire or other centre facilities such as the Ofsted grade one-rated pre-school and youth club, call 01420 85057.