The Apollo Swimming Club for physically disabled is launching a £50,000 appeal to raise money for a much-needed new minibus ambulance. The present bus is beginning to show signs of wear and tear and is requiring costly repairs to keep it roadworthy. The bus is used several times a week to transport members to swimming sessions at Goldenstones, Yeovil, and Sherborne School pool. There are also trips to Sutton Bingham Reservoir in the summer for sailing, as well as social outings.

President of the club, Sue Bullivant, has been tasked with organising a fundraising dinner to give the appeal a major boost. The Museum will be hosting the black tie dinner on Friday 3rd November, and Falklands hero Simon Weston has been booked as the guest speaker.

Sue said: "We're so thrilled that we've managed to get Simon - I'm sure he will be an inspirational speaker and it should be a great evening all round with a fantastic auction, a tombola and a singer." Sue said a new minibus was a "necessity not a luxury". It costs £16,000 a year to run the club and all eight committee members are volunteers. Tickets for the dinner are £45 and there will be 20 tables of ten.  To find out more about the club or the event telephone Sue on 01935 427876.

The Apollo Swimming Club was founded in around 1970 by a local surgeon to help children who needed exercise after orthopaedic operations or after periods of immobilisation. Membership has now widened to include adults with many different kinds of physical disabilities. For many, the club offers a social outing as well as a therapeutic swim.