Nostalgia - Bury St Edmunds schools raise money for a minibus in the 1970s

In 1972, sixth-formers at five Bury St Edmunds schools got together to mark the September changeover to comprehensive education – to raise £1,000 to buy a mini bus for social work.

Students from the County Grammar School for Girls, King Edward VI Grammar School, St Benedict’s School, and the Silver Jubilee Schools for Girls and Boys were involved in the project.

'Mini Bus Rush' was the name, an idea started by Helen Rampling, 18, of Rushbrooke, who was at County Grammar School.

She said: "It seems more worthwhile doing it with the other schools, especially as they will be going to comprehensive soon."

Organising chairman, Penny Turner, 17, of Rougham, said: "It gave us the chance to do something for our community instead of sending cheques to national charities and not seeing what happens to the money."

It was hoped that the students could raise £1,000 by the end of July.

The minibus would be used to for taking people in need on holidays, outings and rehabilitation centres.