A woman's wish to be able to visit her local beach has become a reality thanks to the "overwhelming" generosity of strangers.
Daisy Gerritsen has down syndrome and, as a wheelchair user, was often unable to access her local beach in New Brighton. Daisy's mum, Jen, took to social media where she launched an appeal for help in the Wirral Support During Coronavirus (WSDC) group.
Members responded by donating the cash required to buy a Sand Cruiser chair, which has now been added to the fleet of specialist beach wheelchairs launched by Wirral Council last month. There are now seven of the wheelchairs in total, based at New Brighton's Floral Pavilion and the Wirral Watersports Centre in West Kirby.
READ MORE: Heartbreak as baby boy tries to survive for three days after mum died
The new Sand Cruiser and one electric-powered chair are available for hire at The Floral Pavilion. All available chairs are equipped with support straps, cushions and harnesses.
Any additional support or accessories required to use the chairs will need to be brought by the user. Residents and visitors can book the chairs through the Floral Pavilion website for hire from that venue or the Wirral Leisure booking system for hire from the Watersports Centre.
Cllr Yvonne Nolan, Chair of the Adult Social Care and Public Health Committee, said: “It has been very emotional seeing the many photos being shared of some of the most vulnerable members of our community being able to enjoy some time on the beach and in the water thanks to these beach wheelchairs.
“I am also overwhelmed to hear of the generosity of Wirral residents, in response to an appeal from the WSDC group, in funding a chair themselves and which will be added to the scheme and enable us to help even more people with a disability or mobility issue to access the beach.”
Jen said: “Daisy's wish has become a reality. Her legacy will live on thanks to the generosity of everyone who contributed to the go fund me via WSDC. The ‘Daisy’ chair is now part of the fleet.
“It took many individuals to make this project a reality. Thanks to everyone for believing in the vision and making it happen. The ‘Miles of Smiles’ are incredible to see. Here's to walking our dog together on the beach and splashing in the sea; simple pleasures but priceless treasured memories.”
READ NEXT:
Olivia Pratt-Korbel murder suspect bailed as police appeal for more evidence
Footballer and businesswoman's downfall in £1m gang
Couple who led police to their cannabis farm could have money seized by court
Man 'wielding an axe' arrested after reported attack
Dad of three knew he'd 'lose everything' by chatting to 'underage' girl
