A WILDLIFE trust has successfully raised more than £8,000 to buy an all-terrain mobility scooter for its nature reserve.

Durham Wildlife Trust (DWT) bought it for use at the Low Barns nature reserve at Witton-Le-Wear, near Bishop Auckland.

The free-to-use electric scooter has been provided in memory of former vice president Phyllis Hornsey, who died last year at the age of 92. She had been passionate about making the site accessible for all.

Michael Rogers, Western Reserves Officer, said: “We’re delighted to have taken receipt of the new mobility scooter.

“Low Barns has an excellent series of footpaths and flat terrain that makes it accessible for a wide range of users, but its great news that even more people can now to enjoy this beautiful reserve.

“The scooter was delivered last week and we had a visitor in the same day who thought it was fantastic. It’s very easy to use and everyone has had training so we can show other people how to use it.”

Thanks to the funds, DWT has also purchased a canopy for the scooter, suitable storage at the reserve, insurance and training for the reserves teams.

User Pat Willis, of Newton Aycliffe, said she thought it was brilliant that Low Barns now had a mobility scooter.

She said: “The scooter definitely makes all the difference, I would not be able to walk to the nearest bird hide at the moment without using a mobility scooter.

“It gives you the freedom to explore the full reserve and even keep dry. It will be so helpful to countless other people as well and I think every reserve should have one.”

The purchase was made possible through public donations, legacy bequests, a raffle and tombola at Low Barns and additional funding including a grant from Durham Universities Charities Kommittee (DUCK), which provided a £500 contribution.

Mr Rogers added: “Low Barns is a wonderful place to work, I can’t wait to get here on a morning and don’t want to leave on an evening. It really is a fantastic site and there’s so much to see here.”

Visitors who want to use the scooter are advised to book in advance, contact Durham Wildlife Trust on 0191-5843114.