MEMBERS of the St John Ambulance in Abingdon are celebrating their move into a new home.

Pictured, back from left, are division superintendent Paul Wiggins, duties co-ordinator Pat Matthews, member Darren Smith and division sergeant Grenville Wells, with, front, divisional treasurer Terry Latter

Last year, a fire badly damaged part of the headquarters but the group, which is based in Caldecott Road, plans to replace the hut with a £500,000 building.

An appeal fund has raised nearly £9,000 and the group is waiting to hear from the Vale of White Horse District Council about a long-term lease so an application for Lottery funding can be made.

Ms Latter said: "It's good news to know we will soon be able to return to our own building, but we need a sturdier brick-built structure. We've a long way to go, but if we can get a long-term lease from the council we can apply to the Lottery for help."