A SHOPMOBILITY scheme is to close at the end of the year.

Trustees of Slough Community Transport and Shopmobility (SCTS) have announced that it is unable to meet its £10,000 running costs, meaning the Shopmobility service must be brought to an end.

The scheme, which provides short-term hires of mobility scooters and wheelchairs for usage in the town centre, was previously funded partially by Slough Borough Council, but funding was withdrawn in 2013.

The Slough Community Transport service, that helps transport disabled and infirm people across the borough, will continue to run.

Chairman of SCTS, Ray Gray, said: “We are all extremely sad that a service that has been provided week by week since 1997 to the disabled people of Slough can no longer be afforded.

“I was involved in the setting up of the present scheme in 1997, in partnership with Slough Borough Council. Sadly, since 2013 no support has been available, and our own charity trustees and volunteers have been marvellous in seeking to maintain the service for local residents.

“However, with costs continuing to rise, and with no external funding, we have had to make the decision to close now.”

A manager of SCTS, George Howard, said: “We are effectively two charities, Slough Community Transport and Slough Shopmobility, that merged a long time ago.

“Slough Community Transport was able to fund the Shopmobility with its surplus. But due to rising costs, through rent, electricity, business rates, insurance and so on – there is no longer any surplus left.”

“The scheme will close for Christmas on December 22, and we must hand back all the keys and equipment by January 2.”

Anyone able to help provide the funding needed to save the service is asked to make urgent contact with Mr Gray on shopmo2001@yahoo.com, or through the SCTS office on 01753 536273, between 10am and 2pm.