From my home on the Promenade I have seen for myself, the real issue of families being separated by not being able to access the beach when one member of the group is in a wheelchair.

The beach is a place where people can shed some responsibility and revert to that care-free, childlike state of being; forget their troubles, disconnect from the stresses and strains of everyday life and focus on nothing but having a relaxing time with the people around them. They can immerse themselves in the fresh air, and the sounds of the sea, surrounded by the people they love and the breath-taking scenery. People should not be denied this just because they have physical limitations.

Supported by other members of the community, we have found a solution to this problem. Inspired by similar groups in North Berwick nr Edinburgh and Whitley Bay, Fleetwood Beach Wheelchairs is now a registered charity (1187870) run entirely by a Board of volunteer Trustees, all dedicated to providing access to the beach at Fleetwood to individuals with physical limitation or infirmity.

We will supply and operate all-terrain wheelchairs for access to the Fleetwood beach, initially close to Marine Hall, and in time to other locations. Funding has been secured for initial set-up costs including our first chairs and with the support of Wyre Council we have our own premises on the Promenade.

OCTOBER 2020 UPDATE: We are now OPEN! Our service launched a few weeks ago and the response has been amazing. Families have been able to enjoy time together on the beach for the first time in years, for some the first time ever.

See https://www.fleetwoodbeachwheelchairs.co.uk/feedback and https://www.fleetwoodbeachwheelchairs.co.uk/gallery for some of the feedback and images.

It's a great start but we still need your help. We know these are extraordinary times with many challenges but we have to look to the future with hope and positivity. Your donation will make a huge difference to our project and in turn to the lives of those using the service as they and their families create memories to treasure.

Thank you, Michael.