Blashford Lakes Mobility Buggies
21 May 2009
Two brand new mobility buggies have just been launched at Blashford Lakes Wildlife Reserve. The Blashford Trampers are designed to allow the less mobile to get around the site more easily and enjoy everything that Blashford has to offer.
On hand to try out the Trampers were representatives from The New Forest Access For All group. The group works with local authorities and businesses raising awareness of the many access problems faced by members of the community.
Olive Collins, Chairman of NFAFA, said: "The Wildlife Trust has worked really hard at Blashford Lakes to improve the facilities so that it is even more accessible for people with disabilities. It is already a popular venue with NFAFA members. The addition of two trampers mean that those who do not have their own mobility scooter or the means to transport one, will now be able to fully explore and enjoy this marvellous wildlife Reserve."
Jim Day, Education Officer at the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust said: "This is a big move forward at Blashford. All the main paths are rolled gravel with shallow gradients and have been upgraded to allow greater access for all. The new Trampers can be booked by phoning the Education Centre on 01425 472760. "
The buggies and the required storage facility were funded with a grant from Waste Management Specialists, Cleansing Service Group.
CSG Managing Director Paul Quigley said: "We're delighted to be supporting a project like this which brings together the charity and business sectors in a combined effort to do something practical and lasting to help people to enjoy the environment provided by the New Forest.
"CSG recognises that its business activities must be sustainable and we intend to further develop our links with the Wildlife Trusts movement which plays a key role in preserving the UK's rich and varied habitats."
For more information about the work carried out by New Forest Access For All, visit the group's website at http://www.newforestaccessforall.org.uk/
The next NFAFA ‘accessible ramble' event is at Blashford Lakes on 11th June starting at 12.15pm.
Ends
Photo opportunity
For additional images or to arrange photography, please contact:
Peter Hutchings, Marketing Officer, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, peterh@hwt.org.uk 01489 774400
Attached picture shows Joan Cundill and Lionel Collins from NFAFA on the new Blashford Trampers
Notes to Editors
For further information please contact:
Jim Day, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, jimd@hwt.org.uk 01425 472760
The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust strives to create a better future for wildlife and wild places in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. It is the leading wildlife charity in the counties of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, and is part of a nationwide network of 47 local charities. We work together to create a better future for wildlife and wild places in the UK. With the support of our 27, 000 members, the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Trust is taking effective action to protect our natural heritage, helping it to flourish again. Find out more at http://www.hwt.org.uk/
