STAFF and sportspeople are continuing to step in to try to rescue a debt-ridden facility for the disabled.

Oxsrad, the Oxford and District Sports and Recreation Association for the Disabled, has provided facilities for a wide range of disabled and able-bodied groups for more than 20 years at its Marston base.

But the registered charity faces closure if it cannot pay off a £48,000 bill on a five-year photocopier lease.

Since its plight was revealed in the Oxford Mail last month, it has been overwhelmed by offers of help and support.

On Sunday the centre held a thank you party for the latest fundraising effort on its behalf.

Centre therapist and John Radcliffe midwife Catriona Cusick completed a gruelling cycle ride from Land’s End to John O’Groats and raised more than £1,500 for Oxsrad’s coffers.

She said: “I love the centre because it is for everyone. It is a little gem.

“When I heard they were having problems, I thought my cycle trip would be great to raise money.”

She completed the journey in 18 days, covering an average of 60 miles a day.

Chairman of trustees Tim Cann said the centre wanted to thank those who had pledged support He said: “It is a huge boost. You start to feel you are on your own, so it’s great to see people wanting the centre to continue.

“The money raised is vital to the centre. It is this sort of donation that will allow us to pay the bills so we can concentrate on the debt.

“Every little counts.”

Two anonymous donors have given cash, and Mr Cann said the centre had also received a donation from the Butchers Arms in Headington, which had a collection in the bar.

Earlier this month, Headington Road Runners, who have been based at the centre for over a decade, decided to donate the proceeds of its annual 10km run to help boost the charity’s chances of survival.

But the £1,000 it raised was all but cancelled out by thieves who stole tables and chairs from the event marquees.

Oxsrad admits it is responsible for the lease bill.

Mr Cann said the centre is continuing to negotiate with lease firm BNP Paribas Lease Group (Rentals) Limited to settle the £48,000 debt, but no agreement has been reached.

Earlier this summer, BNP Paribas took the matter to court and Oxsrad was served with a county court judgement, ordering it to pay a total of £48,851.

To find out more about the centre, visit oxsrad.org