THE Shopmobility scheme which has proved such a hit in Northwich may soon be extended to Winsford - provided that enough cash can be raised to run it.

Vale Royal's Shopmobility co-ordinator Jackie Hesketh spoke about the scheme's success when she met members of Winsford Town Council on Monday night.

She told councillors that Shopmobility - which provides scooters and wheelchairs for people with mobility problems, allowing them better access to town centres - was geared up for coming to Winsford.

But she added that a suitable premises would first have to be found in the town and that money could be a stumbling block.

She said: "Vale Royal Borough Council, following pressure from Vale Royal Disability Services, started the Shopmobility scheme in Northwich in April 1997.

"In August 1998, Vale Royal Disability Services took over the running of Shopmobility, which is based at the Information Centre in Northwich.

"People use the scooters to go shopping, or to go to places such as the library. For people such as arthritis sufferers, it can help to make their day much more pleasant."

She added: "I am constantly being asked about when Shopmobility is coming to Winsford. We have the manpower, the training and the willingness, and we know that there is the need.

"I would like Shopmobility to be in Winsford tomorrow, but of course there is a cost. We are geared and ready to bring the scheme here, but what we have not got is the money."

The council heard that an expansion of the scheme to Winsford would involve renting a premises, buying eight scooters at £1,500 each, and that total running costs would probably be more than £20,000.

However, there was plenty of support for the scheme among members, with Clr Harry Mooney saying: "I have been campaigning for this to come to Winsford.

"It's an ideal place to have a Shopmobility scheme and as far as I am concerned, it can't come quickly enough."

The council agreed to discuss the scheme again at a future meeting, with a view to offering financial support.

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