Eastbourne Citizens' Advice Bureau, once threatened with extinction due to money woes, has turned its fortunes around.

Emergency talks were held to determine the future of the CAB following large funding cuts.

Talk of major cutbacks or closure of the service abounded last year amid growing uncertainty for its future.

Matters came to a head when East Sussex County and Wealden District Councils axed important grants totalling more than £145,000 while the rent went up at the CAB's premises in Grove Road.

However, in his latest report, Eastbourne CAB chairman John Boyle says although finances remain tight, confidence in the future has returned.

It follows a grant increase from Eastbourne Borough Council.

The Highlight House fund-raising appeal was launched, which has raised about £15,000 for the service.

Officials at the CAB, based at Highlight House in St Leonards Road, Eastbourne, have praised the volunteers for their unwavering support during the troubles.

Mr Boyle said: "We had to face critical financial problems, the loss of key staff, a fundamental change to our constitution critically, the need to move.

"However, throughout this time of turmoil, the staff, volunteers, advisers, mediators, receptionists, clerical helpers and management committee never wavered."

More than 11,000 people visited the bureau - set up in Eastbourne in 1963 - during the past year.

CAB manager Leighton Jones said: "I think the future of the bureau is looking a lot healthier. We have now moved into our new premises.

"The general feeling of clients, volunteers and paid staff is that it represents an improved working environment.

"There is no doubting that the year we are reporting on was tough but lessons were learnt. The bureau is now in a position to become stronger."