RAYLEIGH and Wickford MP Mark Francois has congratulated the Rayleigh branch of Lions Club International for successfully raising £15,000 towards the cost of a new minibus for the Hockley and Hawkwell Over 55s Day Centre, in Hockley.

Mr Francois visited the centre to see the new minibus, which is fitted with a wheelchair lift for disabled access, and to congratulate everyone involved.

He said: “As a fellow Lion myself, I was very proud of all the work that the Rayleigh Lions Club have done in order to raise such an impressive sum towards this brand new vehicle. This wonderful new asset will help to make it even more accessible to members of the local community in the future.”