New wheelchair helps Arun councillor enjoy beach "for first time in years"
It'll soon be available to hire for free in Littlehampton
A councillor has shared how a new beach wheelchair in Littlehampton has helped her enjoy the beach for the first time in over a decade.
Councillor Amanda Worne trialled the new equipment after having a life-changing accident in 2015 which meant she would never walk again.
The wheelchair, which has low-pressure wheels that can move over sand, will soon be available for free hire - with a child size one also on its way.
Cllr Worne said:
"I have just come back from what I have to say was one of the best days of my life.
"I spent the morning on the beach with the wind in my hair and the salt air on my face.
"I went into the sea, splashed in the water, threw stones and, when the tide is in, I'll even be able to go for a swim.
"This is something I have been unable to do since my accident in 2015.
"For the first time in years, I can enjoy a day at the beach with my family.
Arun District Council is now looking into making one available in Bognor Regis, as it pushes to make the coastline more accissible.
"This is a huge achievement and something we should be incredibly proud of.
"We want as many people as possible to know that this opportunity is available to them," Worne added.
"It was such a lovely feeling and now so many others who have been deprived of that experience will be able to enjoy it too."