THE group behind the campaign to keep Sully Island free for public use has tabled an official bid for the £95,000 rock amid a last minute “rush of donations”.

Steve Shields, who had the original idea to set up the Keep Sully Island Free for Everyone group, was aiming to persuade 950 people to stake a share in the 14.5 acre island for just £100. He is “hopeful” of success ahead of today's (August 4) deadline for offers.

“There has been a sudden flow of activity since we opened the Natwest account for donations last week, which is very encouraging,” he said. “I have no doubt that the amount we have raised demonstrates our ability to raise the total required, it's just a case of what other offers are on the table.”

But the Dinas local was keeping tight lipped on the actual total raised.

“Only those people who have donated up to this point know,” he added. “They are getting regular e-mail updates but other than that it’s a case of confidentiality to avoid gazumping.”

The group, which set up www.savesullyisland.com around two weeks ago with a secure online method for donating, held an awareness event on Saturday (July 30) on the beach in front of the island as a “final push” for donations.

“It was inspiring to meet all these people who want to keep this beautiful island open and unspoiled,” Steve said. “It’s a natural Welsh landmark and should remain as such.”

More than 675 people joined the facebook group since the sale of the island was made public early last month. The landmark boasts a Viking-era hill fort as well as a shipwreck, and is alleged to have been a hideout for a medieval pirate by the name of Nighthawk.

Cooke and Arkwright estate agent Chris Hyde, who is handling the sale, said the Cadw regsitered Site of Special Scientific Interest had attracted “massive interest” from potential buyers.

“Islands don’t sell often and there’s a real mystique about this one,” he said.

Building on the site is not an option however, as it is not allowed.

It is also sorrounded by the second highest tidal range in the world, and is accessible via the treacherous 400-metre sand and stone causeway for just two hours either side of low tide.

But it is believed that the owner would have a licence to produce stamps there.

In the event the ambitious Save Sully Island campaign is successful a trusteeship - made up of all the donators - will be created. If it is unsuccessful all donations will be refunded.

“I still believe the dream could come true,” said Steve.