A new bus which supports family carers, made possible by tens of thousands of pounds of fundraising, has had its first outing.

Suffolk Family Carers’ 8 Days A Week Appeal, supported by BBC Radio Suffolk and the EADT, has so far raised more than £180,000.

The money has gone to buy a bus and its fittings – with the charity hoping to surpass the £200,000 mark by the end of the month.

Yesterday, people had the first opportunity to come and see what the vehicle offers in Elmswell.

Hannah Challis, spokeswoman for the charity, said: “A lot of people have gone on the bus for the first time – the idea was to get out there and get the information out about Suffolk Family Carers to see if it will be helpful for people and a lot of people have said it will be.”

The bus came to the village near Bury St Edmunds for its Golden Age Fair, held at Blackbourne Community Centre.

BBC Radio Suffolk presenter Lesley Dolphin broadcast her afternoon programme from the bus.

As well as money, the bus needs fixtures and fittings, including three iPads and four sets of folding tables and chairs.

To donate to the appeal call 01473 835449.