BOSSES at the region's biggest shopping centre have given a boost to people with disabilities.

MetroCentre chiefs have donated 14 wheelchairs to a home equipment loan scheme at Dunston Hill Hospital, in Gateshead.

The scheme allows disabled people to borrow essential mobility aids, such as Zimmer frames, electric beds, toilet equipment and wheelchairs.

The chairs donated by MetroCentre come from a hire pool from the mall's customer services desk.

Alan Jopling, wheelchair services co-ordinator for Gateshead Health NHS Trust, said: "The wheelchairs will transform the lives of many people currently suffering from immobility problems."