Plans to introduce specially-adapted wheelchairs on the beaches of North Berwick were supported by the town’s community council last week.

The idea was put to North Berwick Community Council (NBCC) last week by Jackie Tagg, who believes there are many people who could benefit from the concept.

And Jackie, who is working alongside Alison Brown to develop the idea, told the Courier about her reasons behind the ambitious idea.

“My brother developed a debilitating and rare illness at 29 which left him gradually more limited with regards to mobility, and my mother became parylsed after a stroke,” she said.

And Jackie, a volunteer at the town’s day centre, added: “On a day-to-day basis I have seen the difficulties people have in doing things that most of us take for granted, like walking on the beach or paddling – missing out on family days on the beach, barbecues or weddings.

“Recently a friend in Cornwall had surgery on her foot, leaving her temporarily unable to stand. Her granddaughter was to have a beach party for her fifth birthday.

“My friend was able to go because Cornwall Council, in partnership with Disability Cornwall, provide beach chairs at a number of beaches. “This really got my interest going and I started to research types of chairs available, cost and how it works in Cornwall and other places.” Meanwhile, Alison explained her reasons for getting involved.

She said: “My son Ethan is six and uses a power wheelchair to get around outside. This gives him a great level of independence but is useless on the beach.” And they have opened discussions with East Lothian Council, North Berwick Harbour Trust Association (NBHTA) and the Scottish Seabird Centre.

The ambitious plans, which would cost several thousand pounds – a standard wheelchair with balloon tyres costs about £4,000 – were supported by members of the community council.

Jackie added: “There are many options for funding and we don’t see money as the main issue. Until we are further forward in sorting out the storage and hiring processes we have not approached potential funders.

“One of the difficulties is finding a place to store wheelchairs near the beach and slipways with facilities for washing them down. NBHTA are keen to help and a location at the harbour would make sense.” And the proposals were backed by Tom Brock, seabird centre chief executive, who told the Courier: “As a conservation and education charity, we are keen that everyone can enjoy our wonderful local environment in a sustainable way.

“It is an excellent idea for North Berwick to have a speciall designed wheelchair that will allow access to the beach.”