North Berwick beach wheelchair project shortlisted for award

A BEACH wheelchair project based in the Lothians has been shortlisted for a national award.

The North Berwick scheme lends child and adult specialist wheelchairs so that people with disabilities can access the town’s beaches.

Now the project has won through to the final stages of the communities and partnerships section of the Cosla excellence awards.

The project, launched by crime author Ian Rankin in July, has attracted many users.

Project leaders have also revealed that they are fundraising for an all-weather hoist and are keen to expand their fleet of wheelchairs.

The team hope to be crowned overall winner when the results are announced in October.

Community leaders have welcomed news of the shortlisting.

Sandra King, North Berwick coastal area partnership manager, said: “They have really brought the community together with this project and have made a trip to the beach a really positive experience for people with a disability and their families and carers.”