Life

Benone beach in Co Derry now has equipment for disabled people including a surfboard for wheelchair users

Talia McDowell (18) tries out a surfboard suitable for wheelchair users at Benone beach<br />&nbsp;
Talia McDowell (18) tries out a surfboard suitable for wheelchair users at Benone beach
 
Talia McDowell (18) tries out a surfboard suitable for wheelchair users at Benone beach
 

SPECIALIST equipment including a surfboard suitable for wheelchair users has been made available at Benone beach in Co Derry to allow people with disabilities access to the beach and sea.

Other pieces of equipment include hoists and changing benches, beach wheelchairs, walkers and floating chairs.

The Mae Murray Foundation hopes the equipment will allow families with mixed abilities to enjoy a day at the beach together.

Alix Crawford is the founder of the charity and her daughter Talia (18) has quadriplegic Cerebral Palsy. 

She said many people of all ages "have never felt sand running through their fingers or experienced the thrill of being in the sea due to the inaccessibility of beaches".

Ms Crawford said the charity's aim was "to help create a society with true participation for all in leisure and social settings, regardless of age and ability" and intends making similar changes to two more beaches by the end of 2018.

The initiative created by the Mae Murray Foundation in partnership with the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council was primarily funded by children's rugby charity Wooden Spoon with further support from Children in Need.

To find out more about the specialist items and how to book them register with the foundation by emailing info@maemurrayfoundation.org or visit www.maemurrayfoundation.org