Buggies bring immobile closer to nature (From This is Hampshire)

Buggies bring immobile closer to nature

10:30am Thursday 9th February 2012 in Romsey

AN ALL-TERRAIN electric buggy service for visitors to a Hampshire nature reserve is a step closer thanks to a big donation.

The Co-operative Solent Area Committee has donated £2,000 to pay for a buggy store and associated electrics to ensure people who are less able can get around Testwood Lakes.

It comes just after a local benefactor gave the electric buggy itself.

Now the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust site needs £1,000 more to get the buggy service up and running.

The service will be aimed at elderly and less able members of the public to ensure they fully enjoy the wildlife and visitor attractions at the nature reserve.

The wildlife trust said the donations will make sure the lakes are open to everyone.

Vice-chair of the Co-operative Solent Area Committee Dave Griffiths presented the cheque to the trust’s John O’Reilly.

He said: “The Co-operative Membership Community Fund allows members to donate some of their share of profits to local community groups. Supporting the wildlife trust is a great way of helping people to enjoy the wildlife on their doorstep.”

Mr O’Reilly, added: “We are really grateful for the support we get from local businesses. We now just need to find the remaining £1,000 to reach our target, that will enable us to get the buggy service up and running.”

If you can help find the remaining amount, contact John O’Reilly on 01489 774400.