AN appeal has been launched to raise funds for an ambitious project to build a new centre for St John Ambulance volunteers.The launch took place at Framlingham Castle and was performed by the Lord Lieutenant for Suffolk, Lord Tollemache.

AN appeal has been launched to raise funds for an ambitious project to build a new centre for St John Ambulance volunteers.

The launch took place at Framlingham Castle and was performed by the Lord Lieutenant for Suffolk, Lord Tollemache.

The new centre, which will cost £280,000 to build, will replace a 1930s building in Framlingham. The charity has already raised £165,000 and is looking for help from the public to collect the rest.

It is to be built in Fairfield Road and include two first aid training rooms, a care training suite with disabled facilities, youth facilities for Badgers and Cadets, a base and garage for the St John Ambulance and a medical equipment loan service.

Appeal manager, Margery Ward, said: "St John has been active in Framlingham since 1937 and their present building is in a terrible state – it is cold, damp and rapidly decaying.

"We are hoping that the many people who have benefited from St John's care and first aid training will dig deep into their pockets and help."

Lord Tollemache added: "We need to build a new one so that the 45 Framlingham volunteers of St John can continue their training on the same site.

"It is wonderful to see these young volunteers working in their own town for the community in Framlingham and it is something that happens throughout Suffolk for the community at large."

Ivy Larter, 87, was one of the first group of 12 St John Ambulance volunteers in Framlingham and gave her support to the appeal.

Her niece, Cathy Fish, said: "She is very happy to support it and very aware that they have exhausted the facilities that they have got. She was instrumental in getting the land for the site of the present building."

For more information and to obtain a copy of the appeal brochure, contact 01473 241500.