A MINIBUS appeal aiming to meet an end-of-January deadline is now only £400 short of the £25,000 needed following a Penarth Times article.

Barry’s High Street-based charity ValePlus last week said it needed a final push to secure the vehicle necessary to transport the adult service users who have learning difficulties.

Staff had to raise £800 before an expected cost-rise of £3,000 next month.

The charity launched its appeal in 2015 to replace the then ten-year-old Ford Transit, so that it could be used for field-trips, coursework, and visits which helped it provide lifelong learning and leisure opportunities to all its members.

ValePlus director Steve Thomas said: “On the Thursday of the article a gentleman dropped off a cheque for £200 and a pledge for another £200 was given on Friday. We are now only £400 short. I have now put down a deposit on the new bus and it should be available by the end of the month. We will organise an officially unveiling soon and invite all those who've helped in our fundraising appeal.”

Minibus appeal donations so far included £5,000 from the True Colours Trust; and £3,000 from Baily Thomas Charitable Fund.

The Barry Floral Society and Soroptimists and many individuals also contributed to the cause.

ValePlus also runs Café No 5 and charity shop Nova, also on High Street, which provides work experience, training, and workplace qualifications in catering and retail environments.

Donations can be taken to ValePlus, in High Street, Barry.

For details, visit www.valeplus.org.uk