A SUPPORT service for disabled people has announced plans to expand.

Redcar and Cleveland's Shopmobility scheme, which offers motorised wheelchairs for the use of disabled shoppers, has moved to bigger premises, in Pybus Place, Redcar.

The service was forced to close last September because of a lack of funds. But Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council stepped in with funding and the service was revived in December.

The larger premises has enabled the Redcar and Cleveland Real Opportunity Centre (Roc) to launch an information section. It will provide information and signposting to other services within the borough, including information on physical disabilities, carers, mental health, addictions and older people.

Shoppers can visit the centre, telephone or email the confidential service with their queries.

A desk has been set up in the shop for other organisations to use to promote their services.

Tony Roberts, Roc's information and shopmobility coordinator said: "We want to build on our current shopmobility customer base to extend our service to offer a wide range of information that promotes citizenship and independent living. Our partners have been very positive and we look forward to supporting a wide range of people."