FARMERS and agricultural workers who are limited by mobility issues have a new helping hand – or set of wheels – thanks to a donation from the Blackmore Vale Lions Club.

John Old was a member of the BVLC for many years and struck down by infirmity in later life, he acquired a mobility scooter.

Before he died, he let it be known that he wanted the scooter to go to the BVLC to be used, in a way they saw fit, for the benefit of the community.

After debate in the group as to how best use the scooter, it was decided to donate it to the Countrymen UK Dorset Branch, at Rylands Farm, Boyshill, to help more experienced farmers and agricultural workers who want to do something in retirement but are restrained by their mobility.

“The first job was finding a way to get the scooter from its temporary garage in Sturminster Newton to Boyshill,” a spokesperson said..

“Luckily our president, Peter Oswick, has a neighbour, Derek Rayment, who was able to borrow and drive a recovery low loader generously provided by Symonds Auto Salvage.”

Derek transported the scooter on a trailer

So it was on February 27, Peter and fellow Lions accompanied Derek to Boyshill and delivered the scooter.

Liz Rose, manager of the Countrymen UK Club, said: “As manager and on behalf of Countrymen UK can I say how grateful we all are to the Lions and how well used the scooter will be to allow our men to continue to work on the farm, to get around to tend to all the animals and to garden in our polytunnels.

“Thanks again to all you Lions.”

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She said any gentlemen who might be interested in joining the group to enjoy male company in a farming environment should contact Liz on 01747 210789, or email liz@countrymenuk.org.

“We are happy to arrange an introductory visit.”