Paralympian helps launch Lowestoft mobility scheme

Paralympian Jessica-Jane Applegate, prior to heading to Rio, presenting a new scooter to Robert Hill.Beactive Mobility, Freerider and Marina Centre Physical Disbaled Swimming Club representives pictured. Picture: James Bass (Image: Archant Norfolk © 2016)

But before talented swimmer Jessica-Jane Applegate heads to Rio to compete in four events, she had time to help launch a government funded mobility scheme in Lowestoft town centre.

BeActive Mobility, based on Bevan Street, are involved in the scheme – which allows people to use a scooter or powered wheelchair for a small cost each week.

People can also obtain support and advice, with the ultimate aim to give more people independence across the Waveney area.

At an event held last Friday, which was sponsored by scooter provider Freerider, representatives gathered in the town centre to speak with residents and show off a number of top of the range mobility scooters.

Doreen Powles and Pat Hollis from the Great Yarmouth Swimming Club, which is sponsored by BeActive Mobility, were also on hand at the launch event.

Jessica-Jane, who won gold in the 200m freestyle event in London four years ago, said: 'A lot have people have stopped and asked what we are doing – everybody is entitled to mobility.

'A lot of people have unseen disabilities, it is nice that we can raise some awareness in the town centre.'

Speaking about her preparations for the Paralympics, Jessica-Jane added: 'Training is going well – fingers crossed everything will go to plan.

'It's really exciting and I have heard it is a really nice country – although I've never been there before and never had Brazilian food.'

Shaun Green, mobility sales manager at BeActive, added: 'We want to promote peace of mind, independence and individuality.

'People are not limited to what they can choose, there's a large choice for all.

'It was great to have Jessica Jane here to help us raise our profile.'