AFTER almost £4,000 was raised by a local family in memory of a loved one, Pembrokeshire Coast National Park has purchased a new beach wheelchair, which will be based at Manorbier as part of the Authority’s expanding mobility scheme.

The new beach wheelchair has been added to the countywide scheme, thanks to the incredible fundraising efforts of the Hutchinson family marking the memory of Fiona, who sadly passed away in June 2024.

Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is not only renowned for its breathtaking coastline, but also for its commitment to ensuring that everyone can enjoy it. A key part of this effort is the Authority’s growing range of outdoor mobility equipment, including free-to-use beach wheelchairs, which have opened up access to the coast for many people – sometimes for the very first time, or at moments when they thought it might no longer be possible.

This vital service is only possible thanks to the generosity of local businesses, community groups and individuals who host the equipment, fundraise, and help shape what is needed.

One of the most recent additions to the scheme, the new Manorbier-based wheelchair is part of a wider effort by the Park Authority to improve access to the outdoors for people with limited mobility.

Fiona Hutchinson lived with a rare illness that meant she used a wheelchair for 20 years, but her love of outdoor adventures and time with her family never faded.

Fiona’s son, Stuart, explained: “We have enjoyed fabulous family breaks over the years. Mum took a huge amount of pleasure in being able to access the beaches with all of us via the beach wheelchairs available at various locations.”

To honour her memory, Fiona’s family spent the past year raising funds so that future generations can experience the same joy she did. They raised almost £4,000, which was donated via the Pembrokeshire Coast Charitable Trust and used to purchase a brand-new D-Bug beach wheelchair.

Manorbier is the latest location to join the scheme, and that is where the new beach wheelchair will be based. The local community has embraced the opportunity to host the equipment and is excited about the new possibilities it will bring for visitors.

Stuart added: “Thanks to the generosity of my Mum's family and friends, many more people will be able to create precious seaside memories with their loved ones, just as we did.”

Beach wheelchairs and all-terrain equipment help improve access to Pembrokeshire’s award-winning beaches and other outdoor areas. You can hire these for free from various locations in the National Park.

Anyone interested in supporting the project – whether through fundraising or by offering time and expertise – is encouraged to contact Angela Robinson, the Park Authority’s Health and Wellbeing Officer, via [email protected].

Visit www.pembrokeshirecoast.wales/beach-wheelchairs to find out more about the range of mobility equipment that can be hired for free throughout the National Park.

Further information about the work of the Pembrokeshire Coast Charitable Trust can be found at https://pembrokeshirecoasttrust.wales/.