HEREFORD Shopmobility will close its doors on March 31 following a turbulent period during which the facility has seen its funding – and hours – cut.

However, Mills Mobility will take over the customer subscription base and is offering to maintain current rates.

"Had Greg not come forward the service would have closed," marketing and development manager for Services for Independent Living (SIL) Sheilagh Callaghan said.

"We're trying to keep a service running for Hereford, so the people that need the facilities have them," owner Greg Mills said.

Greg, who has worked within the disabled industry for 12 years, will increase his staffing to ensure customers feel confidant when taking scooters out from the company base in Whitecross.

Since opening in July 2017 Mills Mobility has gone from strength to strength and currently operates from a 2000ft square workshop and showroom supplying new and refurbished equipment for people with disabilities.

"Being a Herefordian, I have seen how important this service is to many residents and have been working alongside Services for Independent Living (SIL) to try and prevent the closure," he said. This included offering free repairs at his workshop.

As of April 9 Mills Mobility hopes to operate a sustainable scheme from its existing premises on Harrow Road.

"It will be a not for profit operation," Greg confirmed with overheads being absorbed by his current business.

"I am aware our location is not ideal but we cannot afford to open new premises at this time. We can accommodate several cars on site and anyone using the service is more than welcome to park at our unit to take the scooters into town, about a ten minute scooter ride.

"We believe it is important to invest back into our community and this is why we have chosen to implement a new service."

Two staff who currently work at the Maylord Orchard outlet for Shopmobility have been offered alternative opportunities within SIL.

Anyone with questions is encouraged to contact the office on 01432 277000 or 0800 4700281.