The Mayor and Mayoress of Basingstoke tried out the latest scooter acquired by Shopmobility Basingstoke with funds from last year’s civic charity appeal.

Mayor Cllr Paul Frankum and Mayoress Cllr Jane Frankum both gave the seal of approval to the brand new travel scooter which allows people with mobility difficulties to get around more easily and can be taken apart to carry in a vehicle.

The scooter was purchased with money raised during Cllr Jane Frankum’s year as mayor. She was delighted to accompany her son to the Shopmobility office in Church Street, Basingstoke, to test drive the scooter and meet the team.

“I am pleased that some of the funds raised during my year as Mayor have been used to get more local residents with mobility challenges on the move,” she said.

“People of all ages can face mobility issues – through accidents, surgery, illness or disability, for instance.

“With the support of the friendly team at Shopmobility Basingstoke, these people can access a wide range of mobility scooters and wheelchairs for all abilities.”

The Mayor added: “Shopmobility Basingstoke offers a fantastic service to people who have difficulty getting out and about because of mobility problems. There is a wide range of mobility equipment available and helpful staff who are happy to give advice.

“The Mayoress and I enjoyed visiting the office and hope the new travel scooter will prove a useful addition to the Shopmobility fleet.”

Shopmobility Basingstoke chairman Tom Gilvear said: “We are very grateful to receive the new travel scooter bought with proceeds from the Mayor’s Charity Appeal. It will enable more local residents who have difficulty walking to visit the places that they would not otherwise have been able to reach.

“The new travel scooter breaks down into five small pieces for easy handling and fits into the smallest of boots, allowing users to travel further afield.

“It was a pleasure to welcome the Mayor and Mayoress to the Shopmobility Basingstoke office and our thanks to them for their support.”

Manager Lin Chandler added: “Shopmobility Basingstoke gives local residents their independence in the community. We rely on fundraising events to help raise essential funds towards running the service and are keen to hear from individuals and companies who would like to help raise funds for us.”