Cancer support charity The Hummingbird Centre has received a funding boost from rail crossing campaigners who donated cash raised through a community appeal.
Earlier this year, members of the London Road crossing campaign group launched the ‘Donate a Pound to Go Underground appeal’, inviting residents to contribute towards plans for a replacement crossing in Bicester.
The group hoped to present the money to the Government as a contribution towards the cost of building an underpass for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians near the existing London Road level crossing, which is due to close when the East West Rail line opens.
However, Rail Minister Lord Peter Hendy and the Treasury recently confirmed they were unable to accept public donations towards the project.
As a result, the campaign group has donated the £3,401 raised through the appeal to two local charities – Launton-based The Hummingbird Centre and Nai’s House, which provides mental health support to young people.
Carole Hetherington, chairman of Langford Village Community Association and one of the leaders of the London Road crossing campaign, said: “We now know the only option being taken forward by East West Rail is the motorised underpass, so well done, Bicester.
“The money raised has now been divided equally between the two charities we nominated at the start of the campaign in case our offer to the Government was rejected. Both organisations do fantastic work in our community and are very deserving recipients of the funds.”
Hummingbird Centre founder and CEO Mechelle Harris said: “We are incredibly grateful to everyone who supported this appeal and to the campaign group for choosing The Hummingbird Centre as one of its beneficiaries.
“Every donation to The Hummingbird Centre helps us continue providing vital emotional, practical and wellbeing support to people living with cancer and to their families. This funding will help ensure that local people can continue to access our services when they need them most.
Article written by Sam McGregor