The wait for wheelchair is over (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

The wait for wheelchair is over

AN art student who has spina bifida is celebrating after receiving a new wheelchair 20 months after he asked for help.

Kevin Moore, 45, of Shaplands, in Stratton St Margaret, told the Advertiser in December he feared his current wheelchair was on the verge of collapse.

Martin Brown, of Kennet and North Wiltshire Primary Care Trust, which manages wheelchair services, apologised for the delay and said he hoped it would be sorted out by Christmas but it wasn't.

Now Mr Moore, who attends an art course at Swindon College three days a week, said he is pleased with the chair.

He said: "It's a lot better than the old one. It feels quite speedy and a lot lighter, which means it's less stressful on my arms."

Mr Moore first contacted Wiltshire Wheelchair Services, based at Melksham Hospital, in the summer of 2002 after the old wheelchair had fallen into disrepair.

Various appointments were cancelled firstly Mr Moore could not get to Melksham where the facility is based and then the Wheelchair Service cancelled due to transport problems but he was finally fitted for a wheelchair last month.

He said: "I was walking until I was 31 but always knew one day my legs would grow too weak and I would need a wheelchair.

"It took a while to adapt but now my wheelchair is the only way I can get around, which is why I would like one which feels secure."

Mr Brown said: "We are pleased Mr Moore has the equipment he needs and hope he will be able to make good use of it."