Mobility scooter users in Norfolk are being invited to take part in a nationally recognised awareness course that shows them how to safely operate their mobility aids.

Representatives from Norfolk Constabulary in partnership with leading mobility retailer, Halfords are holding an open mobility scooter awareness course for the public at the Kings Centre, 30 Queen Anne’s Road, Southtown, Great Yarmouth NR31 0LE on Thursday 29 July 2010.

Participants will be invited to watch the Constabulary’s new film ‘Safe Scoot’, presented and narrated by Sheila Reid, star of hit BBC series “Benidorm”.

Scooter users will be able to try the pioneering mobility scooter course for themselves as they work their way through a series of cones, obstructions and props to boost their confidence when carrying out basic manoeuvres including parking, reversing and negotiating kerbs.

"The ability to be mobile is extremely important for people..."

Supt Jim Smerdon

Superintendent Jim Smerdon said: “The fact there is no training requirement for mobility scooter users raises the issue of road safety.

"The ability to be mobile is extremely important for people, however we need to ensure that people use mobility scooters in a safe and appropriate manner.

"Some users may even have disabilities which limit their ability to manoeuvre the scooter, something which he DVD and the Norfolk Constabulary course could assist with.”

Halfords is the first major retailer to offer a credible mobility range in 258 superstores and on line, and offers customers purchasing products expert advise and demonstrations on how to drive the vehicles.

Natalie Scott, Halfords Mobility expert said:  “In sponsoring the Safe Scoot campaign we are able to make invaluable safety awareness material available to all our customers, as well as, raising the awareness of this very important issue to users and their carers. 

“We recognize scooters are for many a route to freedom, and are committed to helping our customers make the most of their regained independence.”

The courses have recently made national acclaim as Norfolk Constabulary Superintendent Jim Smerdon and Crime prevention officer Penny Carpenter are advising the Government’s Transport Committee on how best to address the issue.”