Disabled bird watchers to benefit from all-terrain scooter

RSPB Saltholme has taken delivery of the specialist mobility scooter after Robin and Susan Laycock successfully raised enough funds to buy it for the nature reserve.

The couple, from Richmond, North Yorkshire, used their woodworking skills to create a whole range of wildlife-friendly homes and feeders, which they then sold to raise the cash.

In 2009, they raised enough money to purchase two motorised mobility scooters for the reserve, but their efforts did not stop there.

Mr Laycock said: “Some years ago one of my brothers had a stroke and was unable to continue bird watching, as he thought it was unfair for someone else to have to push him around. We visited RSPB Minsmere together on a holiday and were able to use their mobility scooter. This gave him the freedom to enjoy his bird watching again as he had the ability to move when and where he wanted.

"When the RSPB decided to build a new reserve at Saltholme, Sue and I thought it would be a good idea to provide a mobility scooter for them so other people with mobility problems could enjoy the freedom of exploring nature on Teesside."

The couple has also worked with local schools to create the wildlife-friendly homes, and help schoolchildren give nature a home in their playgrounds and playing fields.

Lisa Daley, centre manager at RSPB Saltholme, added: “Having the scooters on the reserve means we can give people who may not usually have the ability to get out and enjoy nature the opportunity to do just that. Just because you are less mobile for whatever reason, does not mean you can’t come along and enjoy all the wonderful things Saltholme has to offer.”

All three mobility scooters are offered free of charge to visitors to the reserve, although it is recommended to call in advance to reserve a scooter to avoid disappointment on the day.

Full details can be found at www.rspb.org.uk/saltholme or call 01642-546625 for more details.