Cranbrook Town Council has launched the town's first mobility scooter, available for free hire.

The initiative aims to improve accessibility for residents and visitors, allowing them to explore Cranbrook and its award-winning country park more easily.

The scheme was developed by Cranbrook Town Council and funded in partnership with Devon County Council, LiveWest, and Move More Cranbrook.

The scooter was officially launched on Saturday, September 28, with a demonstration ride to Cranbrook Country Park.

The event was attended by town councillors, project sponsors, and residents.

Cranbrook Town Council's Ray Bloxham said: "Cranbrook has rapidly developed over the past ten years.

"With amenities now spreading throughout the town and the award-winning 35-hectare Cranbrook Country Park, we want residents and visitors to have greater ease travelling across the area.

"We are pleased that the mobility scooter scheme enhances accessibility in Cranbrook.

"We extend our sincere thanks to Devon County Council, LiveWest, and Move More Cranbrook for their support in funding this project."

The idea for the initiative was born at a Clyst Valley Regional Park meeting, with LiveWest's community connector bringing together all interested parties to make it a reality.

LiveWest's community investment fund donated £1,000 to support the project.

Lesley Browne, LiveWest's community connector for the area, said: "LiveWest are delighted to provide funds to help support the purchase of a mobility scooter for Cranbrook’s residents and help increase the accessibility of the area.

"With the new scooter, more residents can explore some of the best assets in Cranbrook like the country park and its stunning green spaces.

"It will also help more residents visit the local shop or post a parcel.

"Especially as not all residents can explore these spaces due to health and mobility difficulties and the importance of everyone’s wellbeing, it’s great that we have joined together to provide a free service for the community.

"We can’t wait to see the scooter in action."

Matt Rowett from Move More Cranbrook added: "Move More Cranbrook is delighted to have contributed towards the mobility scooter.

"It perfectly fits with our mission of helping people of all abilities and all generations in Cranbrook, to move more, and to get out and about in our country park.

"We can’t wait to see families and groups enjoying this exciting new facility."

The mobility scooter will be available for free hire in two-hour sessions on weekdays, from 10am to 2pm, providing an opportunity for people to explore Cranbrook Country Park and other local amenities.

Cranbrook Country Park has been awarded the Green Flag and recognised by the Devon Wildlife Trust’s Treescape.

Bookings can be made via the Cranbrook Town Council office at the Younghayes Centre or by email at bookings@cranbrooktowncouncil.gov.uk.