THE generosity of South Bucks residents has helped a charity race to its target of £150,000.

Scannappeal's bid to equip two state-of-the-art mobile units came to a close last week after just 18 months of donations.

Hitting the target means the units, which benefit diabetics and elderly residents in the area, will be touring the district by the end of the year.

Nigel Cox, consultant ophthalmologist at Wycombe Hospital, said some equipment had already been ordered and mobile retinal cameras were expected in August.

He added: "We are all very excited about the completion of the Eye Appeal.

"The generosity of Buckinghamshire residents and businesses has been a revelation to me and enabled us to reach our target quickly."

Initially based at the Queen Alexandra Road site, the two vans will be kitted out before venturing out to community clinics and surgeries in time for this winter.

Dr Cox added: "I must express my heartfelt thanks to all the volunteers, organisations, businesses and individuals who have worked so hard and been so amazingly generous."

The contribution of major donors to the appeal, who each sponsored specialist equipment, will be recognised on the exterior of the vans.

Businesses include The Paperchain Partnership, Diabetes UK High Wycombe and District Group, High Wycombe and District Show Association, High Wycombe Lions Club and Mix 107.

Scannappeal's fundraising continues with the £100,000 Breast Cancer Equipment Appeal for Wycombe Hospital for specialist equipment for less invasive surgical techniques for women with breast cancer.

You can support this new appeal by either telephoning 01494 734161 or email: info.scannappeal@sbucks.nhs.uk.