AMOBILITY shop has signed up to a Government-backed initiative to get disabled people moving.

Stan Shaw, 63, was the first customer through the doors of Lifestyle and Mobility, in Market Square, Basildon, to take up the Motability scheme.

It allows him to use his disability living allowance to rent a scooter for £58 a month, which includes insurance and maintenance.

Until the familyrun business signed up , the nearest shops were in Kent and London.

Mr Shaw, from Pitsea, has to use a walking stick and struggles to stay on his feet for too long since having a knee replacement three years ago.

He said: “It gives me peace of mind. If I bought a scooter outright myself it would all be down to me, and if it broke down I would be left stranded.

“I have been able to go around Basildon town centre for the first time in three years. I haven’t been out at all.

“The people in the shop are absolutely fantastic.

“I have never felt so welcome, nothing is too much trouble.”