DERBYSHIRE’S beautiful Ladybower Reservoir is now accessible for everyone, thanks to the launch of a new Wheelyboat, which can accommodate wheelchair users.
Gillian Scotford, co-founder of Accessible Derbyshire, said: “We are just approaching the end of our two-year challenge to make the Peak District National Park the most accessible national park in the UK.
“We want everyone to be able to enjoy the great outdoors and one of the first things we dreamed about was to buy a Wheelyboat for Ladybower as it is such a beautiful place.
“To achieve this dream is absolutely fantastic and we are so excited.”
Gillian and friend Jane Carver set up Accessible Derbyshire in February 2014. Between them they have six children, three with severe disabilities.
Andy Beadsley, director of The Wheelyboat Trust, said: “This is our 177th launch. Our aim is to have as many Wheelyboats across the UK as possible and allow everyone to take part in water-based activities no matter their age, disabled or not.”
Wheelchair users board the Coulam 16 Wheelyboat via a ramp from bank or pontoon onto a hydraulic platform that lowers to deck level.
Removable handrails around the platform help keep anglers secure and simplify the boarding and disembarking procedure.
