A BRAND new heavy-duty stair lift has been installed at the Sherborne Area Youth & Community Centre.

The previous stairlift at the community centre – known locally as Tinney’s – broke down at the end of 2024 following decades of use.

The stair lift provided access to a large function room, used by mothers and babies, bridge, art and language groups.

The trustees said that due to the breakdown of the old stair lift, at least two groups had to find alternative venues so that all their members could continue to attend sessions.

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Efforts to fix it were in vain, as due to its age, the parts needed were no longer available.

Trustees of Tinney’s submitted an application to the Simon Digby Charitable Trust due to the “substantial” cost of a replacement.

The new stair lift can carry up to 25 stone and can be operated by either the user or remotely.

Chairman of the trustees Russ King said: “We are very grateful to the Simon Digby Charitable Trust. Their donation means that once again all the centre’s facilities are accessible to all members of the community.”

The new stairlift was unveiled by Sherborne Mayor councillor Jill Warburton.