Country park hosting special day for disabled visitors

From joining in the parkrun or taking part in an under-7s sensory nature trail, to cycling and even orienteering, visitors of all abilities and ages can get out and about at Moors Valley Country Park’s Disabled Access Day on 11 March.

Rangers, guides and other support staff will be on hand to assist visitors with whatever they may like to try – and you do not need to be registered disabled to do it! Some local charities will also be on hand with information to share.

The Park carried off the Gold award for ‘Access and Inclusivity’ in last October’s Dorset Tourism Awards and their Access for All web page lists a complete timetable of activities, details of wheelchair bikes, manual wheelchairs and a Braille leaflet, as well as accessibility maps.

And anyone wanting to try one of the Tramper mobility scooters can take advantage of a free two-week trial membership of Countryside Mobility or get 18 months for the price of 12 if you join as an annual member. Just call the Rangers on 01425 470721 for details.

Everything is free on the day but vehicle charges apply unless tax exempt for disability, for which evidence documents will be needed. Holders of a Dorset Max card are eligible for a reduced parking rate. In both cases, just drop into the Visitor Centre on arrival.

Moors Valley Ranger and disability accessibility champion, Katie Davies said, “We are very proud to hold the Gold Award for Access and Inclusivity. This special day allows us to showcase why we won this prestigious accolade and demonstrate just how straightforward it is to get out and about in the great outdoors. We truly want everyone, no matter what their ability, to be able to enjoy the wide range of activities on offer at Moors Valley.”