Call for scooter restrictions (From Tewkesbury Admag)

Call for scooter restrictions

7:14am Wednesday 6th February 2008 in News By Peggy Clatworthy

DANIEL Lane of Tewkesbury is calling for a restriction on the people who can use mobility scooters.

His call comes after his 84-year-old mother, Audrey, suffered a broken leg and wrist when she was knocked down by one in Tewkesbury High Street.

"They are a menace especially because when someone buys one they only get ten or fifteen minutes training.

"It is good that they help people get about, but some people use them just to get to pub, or get out of walking.

"I would like to seem them restricted to people who need them on medical grounds," he said.

His mother was knocked over as she waited at the crossing outside Somerfield last Saturday.

The scooter rammed into her from behind, knocking her into the road.

The driver rode off saying that he could not stop because he was busy.

She is now recovering in Tewkesbury Hospital, but no date has been set for her discharge.

"We have to get a care package in place for her," he said.

He added that she may be only 4ft 11, but she is a normally a bundle of energy who does all her own gardening and decorating, and walks into town from Shepherds Mead where she lives twice a week, walking back via Morrison's.

"She has broken her left leg and right wrist which is making it very difficult for her to do anything at all.

"It seems so unfair that an 84 year old should face weeks of pain," he said.

A few hours after the incident at man walked into Tewkesbury police station and said that he was the man involved in the incident.

He has been questioned by police, and a report sent to Crown Prosecution service.

He may face charges under the Road Traffic Act.