SHOPPING will become easier for some local residents following a donation of £200 from AWE to Shopmobility Basingstoke.

The charity, which is based in Church Street, aims to give people with mobility challenges better access to Basingstoke town centre facilities.

Shopmobility has 42 powered scooters and 35 manual and powered wheelchairs, which are available for hire by local residents and visitors to improve their access to Basingstoke Town Centre and Festival Place.

The charity also leases the equipment for holidays and weekends away.

The donation from AWE will provide additional funding towards the maintenance and repair of mobility scooters.

Anne Blackmore, manager of Shopmobility Basingstoke, said: “We are extremely grateful to AWE for its continued support through the vehicle purchase and maintenance programme. Having more freedom to get around on a daily basis can really change a person’s life.”

Linsey White, from AWE Corporate Communications, added: “The AWE Community Committee has supported Shopmobility for a number of years and has previously purchased two scooters for local residents. We also contribute to the maintenance costs of the scooters.

“AWE is committed to helping charities through donations as well as offering practical help.”