A STRING of shops has opened to sell a range of equipment for people with disabilities.

County Durham Care, a wing of the county's social services department, has opened "Home Independence" shops within day centres, for people with a physical disability or sensory impairment.

The shops, at Pity Me, Peterlee, Stanley and Spennymoor, have a large selection of products designed to make every day tasks easier, ranging from bath hoists to TV magnifiers.

Customers are encouraged to try out the equipment, and in-store or home demonstrations can be arranged.

Ivy Craggs, of the Abbey Day Centre shop at Pity Me, near Durham, said: "Everything we sell is available at a very competitive price, and, if people have a recognised medical condition, they don't have to pay VAT."

For more information, call Dawn Hirst, on 0191-383 5150