DURHAM'S Shopmobility scheme is appealing for help after it had to take its ageing minibus off the road.

The organisation, which hires scooters and wheelchairs to disabled visitors to the city centre, used the 15-year-old vehicle, which has a tail lift, to bring in people and groups from outlying areas for shopping visits.

But the vehicle's suspension system needs costly work, and the organisation has decided to scrap it as its working life would have ended next year.

Now it needs to raise about £10,000 for another second-hand vehicle and is writing to businesses and grant-giving trusts for help.

Project co-ordinator Tracey Wilson, said that Shopmobility had had to cancel trips booked for the next few months.

"We are trying to raise £10,000 to get a decent second-hand one. A new minibus would cost £40,000 to £50,000. There are buses out there for £4,000 to £5,000, but you only get what you pay for.''

She added: "Even if everybody was prepared to give us £100, it would be a help. We are not asking for someone to give us the £10,000. We just want a contribution.''

Anyone who can help is asked to call the Shopmobility office on 0191-386 8556.