Dornoch Beach Wheelchairs set sights on new electric wheelchair to add to their equipment; Sutherland group set up JustGiving fundraiser
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A PIONEERING project aimed at opening up one of Sutherland's beautiful beaches to people of all physical abilities is already making such a splash that it has set its sights on another big fundraising goal.
Dornoch Beach Wheelchairs launched last year to provide people with the ability to enjoy the miles of stunning sands on the Dornoch Firth – regardless of their physical condition.
It unveiled four state-of-the-art beach wheelchairs – and a purpose-built shed in which to house them – back in the autumn after dedicated volunteers spent two years working tirelessly to raise the £70,000 required.
And they are already eager to add to that equipment, after launching a fresh £17,000 appeal for a new electric wheelchair, which promises to provide even greater freedom to those with physical disabilities.
For the new all-electric wheelchair will enable people to enjoy the beach even if they have no carer with them.
A spokesman for the charity said: "Dornoch Beach Wheelchairs believe everyone has the right to get to the beach and where better than here in Dornoch!
"This new service is unique to the north of Scotland.
"People of any age can find themselves unable to access our beautiful beaches. Physical disability can arise for many reasons from lifelong health conditions to general infirmity, accidents and many more reasons.
"We have been able to buy four chairs but will continue to fundraise for other equipment that will enable those with disabilities or the elderly who find it difficult to access our beach.
"We feel that by having an electric chair this gives individuals the freedom to be on the beach without the need for a carer."
The charity hires out its beach wheelchairs free of charge from its new shed at the Dornoch Beach car park. Manned by a team of dedicated local volunteers, the facility is available to any disabled or infirm person from any part of the UK.
The wheelchairs are specially designed for use on the shore. They have large rubber wheels for ease of use on the sands, and can also be pushed into the sea so that those using them can also enjoy a paddle.
The new electric wheelchair fundraiser hopes to generate £17,000. At the time of writing it had raised £270 towards this goal.
To donate, and find out more, visit www.justgiving.com/campaign/dornochbeachwheelchairs.
The first set of wheelchairs were paid for using a range of funds from many donors, including a sizeable contribution from the Beatrice Wind Farm.
They have already generated plenty of interest, with nursing home residents among those to have enjoyed their use since the service launched.
Related news: New Dornoch beach chairs give seaside joy
