CHILDREN at a special school in Colchester are enjoying whizzing around on micro scooters thanks to the generosity of a successful company.
Lexden Springs School, which cares for children with severe learning difficulties, has become the latest beneficiary from Micro Scooters’ Scooter Aid scheme.
The firm, which is based in Coast Road, West Mersea, is the biggest selling company of micro scooters in the country.
But it also takes in old and well-used scooters which are given a makeover and are then donated to worthy causes.
Micro scooters have been sent to hundreds of groups across the UK and out to poor communities in Africa and India.
Ben Gibson, business development manager for Micro Scooters, said “We ask people to donate their old micro scooters and we revamp them and send them out to other organisations.
“We get about 50 requests a week to our scheme, Scooter Aid, and Lexden Springs was one of those which came forward.”
Since being set up last year, the scheme has sent out scooters to 350 groups including seven scooters to Lexden Springs School.
Mr Gibson said: “We also give new scooters to hospitals to help children’s recovery.
“The scooters have three wheels and to steer them, a child has to lean in the direction they want to go.
“As such, using a micro scooter is good for the fine motor skills as well as for balance and co-ordination.
“The scooters are also really good for children with physical handicaps.”
Lexden Springs School is also hoping to build a new playground for its pupils.
Many of them have physical disabilities or are in wheelchairs and, as such, cannot use traditional play areas.
The 100,000 Smiles appeal, supported by the Gazette, aims to raise £100,000 to pay for the play area.
So far, £35,000 has been raised but more is still needed.
To support the appeal,send a cheque to the Lexden Springs Appeal Fund at Lexden Springs School, Halstead Road, Colchester, CO3 9AB, or go to www.justgiving.com/lexdensprings.
If you are fundraising for them, contact them via email at appealfund@lexdensprings.essex.sch.uk.