A RETIRED youth tutor has launched a £12,000 fundraising drive to light up an Ipswich basketball court.Terry Hagan, who has given 20 years service to the young people of Chantry, is spearheading a campaign to floodlight the estate's community basketball court.

A RETIRED youth tutor has launched a £12,000 fundraising drive to light up an Ipswich basketball court.

Terry Hagan, who has given 20 years service to the young people of Chantry, is spearheading a campaign to floodlight the estate's community basketball court.

The chairman of the Chantry Youth Development Initiative said planning permission has already been granted to light the court, which is freely available to young people on the estate.

"Floodlighting will extend the use of this leisure facility during the winter months but we do need funding," said Mr Hagan.

"The estimated cost is £12,000 but there will be ongoing costs for electricity and maintenance which will average £2,000 a year."

The court has been part-sponsored by The Evening Star. Money is already starting to trickle in and thanked those who made donations so far for their positive support.

The Woolpack Inn in Tuddenham Road, Ipswich, raised £140 with a barbecue and a further £1,000 was donated by Chantry Housing Forum. County Councillor Sue Thomas also pledged £1,000.

Readers who would like to make a donation are asked to make cheques out to Chantry Residents' Association Youth Section and crossed.

Alternatively hand in cash to the Chantry residents' shop, Lavender Hill, Chantry, Ipswich. All donations are acknowledged in writing. Chantry Residents' Association is a registered charity number 1071676.