Fundraising is well under way for a new headquarters which will help bring the 1st Norwich Sea Scouts group into the 21st century.

The group has been trying to raise funds for nearly three years to replace its 'tired and run-down' headquarters in Lakenham, and it hopes that by the spring they will be ready to start the building work.

Kelvin Woodard, project treasurer, said: 'We can't do anything with the building. It is subsiding, has concrete coming off and an asbestos roof.'

They aim to replace it with a building that will be fully accessible, energy efficient and built from sustainable materials.

'It is going to be a building that takes us into the 21st century,' he said.

The target is to raise �400,000, with work able to start when they reach �300,000. More than 100 charitable trusts have been contacted with grants and donations received from a wide range of sources, as well as a Sponsor a Plank Appeal and the Great Norwich Duck Race.

To date, they have raised �228,350, with 90pc from Norwich sources. However, after fees they have �163,150 towards their total.

Mr Woodard said: 'We would like to start the building process next spring, but it is difficult. We could get a cheque and start tomorrow or it could be another 10 years.'

The 1st Norwich Sea Scouts, which has 70 members aged six to 18, have been on the site on Old Lakenham Hall Drive since 1935.

For more details or to help the fundraising, visit www.1stnorwichseascouts.co.uk or email ksw@premier-links.net

Are you trying to raise money for a community project? Contact Richard Wood on 01603 772423 or richard.wood@archant.co.uk