A CHARITY is hoping to move from its constricted town centre site into a new purpose-built headquarters, thanks to an anonymous benefactor who responded to an appeal in the Craven Herald.

But it could be three years before Skipton and Craven Action for Disability (SCAD) can take advantage of the offer, even if it gets planning permission.

SCAD, which is based in Newmarket Street, Skipton, has had to cope with a financial crisis following the loss of money on its former Ilkley shop, which it had to close.

Last October the charity launched an appeal in the Craven Herald, asking people for donations help it to relocate its main office.

Chief executive Roy Aldread said it had been surprised and delighted when a benefactor generously offered land off Wood View, Embsay, to be leased at a peppercorn rent.

However, last year SCAD experienced a big loss relating to its shop in The Grove, Ilkley.

"We lost a lot of money. We took it in 2010 expecting to do well in a town like Ilkley, where we have members, but it didn't. We had to sell one of our fleet of buses. It hit us badly," said Mr Aldread.

"But if we get planning permission we will have three years to find the capital funding and we have a chance to get something from the Big Lottery."

Moving to larger premises would mean it could increase its fleet of buses - at present there are six - and so meet the big rise in the number of people who wanted the use its services.

The demise of the Little Red Bus and Pennine Bus Services had seen demand for SCAD’s services increase tenfold.

The new base would also include a store for donated goods which supply its four remaining shops in Keighley, Cross Hills, Skipton and Settle and allow the expansion of the service.

SCAD, which relies on volunteers, operates a Dial-A-Ride, which collects members from their homes and takes them to places such as medical appointments, dentists, chiropodists, hairdressers, supermarkets, local care homes, nursing homes, hospices or even just to visit family and friends.

It also takes disabled children and children with special needs to and from the special schools in the area, and organises day trips to places such as Morecambe, Southport, Whitby, the Lakes, stately homes, parks and museums.

SCAD trustee and local councillor Robert Heseltine said the trust was sound and had substantial reserves. The move to Embsay for operational purposes made good business sense.

To pledge support for SCAD, contact the office on 01756 701005.