A NEW all-terrain mobility scooter is opening up the Malvern Hills to people who have difficulty walking.

The scooter, known as a Tramper, will be available for hire from Café H2O at the Malvern Hills GeoCentre in Upper Colwall, from where people can enjoy the popular route up to the Worcestershire Beacon.

Jamboree, a co-op of adults with learning disabilities which operates Café H2O, raised the money to buy the scooter, working with the Malvern Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Malvern Hills Conservators, Disabled Ramblers, and Key IQ, which manages the geocentre.

Kate Harding of Jamboree said: “We have been amazed at how many people have supported this initiative and helped us raise the funds. Offering an option for those with limited mobility to enjoy the fresh air and amazing views is something we have been excited about for over a year now, and Team Jamboree are so pleased it is now a reality."

Adrian Burden of Key IQ said: “As the Malvern Hills GeoCentre is situated some way up the Malvern Hills with car-parking, café, local information and visitor facilities, this makes for an ideal location to offer the Tramper service and we are delighted to support the initiative.”

David Armitage, manager of the AONB, said: “One of our aims is to increase access opportunities to all people, so we are really pleased to see the Tramper available in one of the most iconic and unspoilt landscapes in the country. We're sure it will be very well used."

The project has also received funding from Colwall Rotary Club, Malvern Round Table, West Fest and those who made donations at the café.

The Trampers can go up and down slopes, over bumps and tree roots, through shallow puddles, mud and soft ground and are for use by anyone who struggles with walking whether through age, or a permanent or temporary condition. With a top speed of 4mph, it can keep pace with the briskest walking companion.

To find out more, contact 01684 252414 or teamjamboree@aol.com.