THRILLED volunteers who run a Suffolk sailing charity today thanked their wonderful supporters who picked up the phone to help them win �50,000 in lottery funding.

The East Anglian Sailing Trust (EAST), based at Suffolk Yacht Harbour, in Levington, was named as the successful bidder in ITV1’s People’s Millions as it beat off the challenge of a Norwich charity to secure the cash.

The group – which runs sailing trips for able-bodied and disabled sailors – won the most public votes and now has a cheque for �50,000 from the Big Lottery towards a new waterside community centre at the marina.

Trustee Michael Hervey-Murray said: “We are ecstatic – I cannot tell you how thrilled and delighted we all are.

“This is the most wonderful news.

“We want to thank everyone who voted for us – the support has been amazing.”