A DISABILITY charity stripped of all its local government funding last year has opened a new centre in West Drayton.

Hertfordshire Action on Disability (HAD) opened the mobility equipment and advice centre in Yiewsley High Street last Wednesday.

The charity already has a similar centre for the elderly and disabled at their Hertfordshire HQ in Welwyn Garden City and has been operating as a charity since 1958.

HAD’s commercial manager Christian Denman said he felt their new location in Hillingdon would add to their success.

“With Hillingdon Hospital nearby and assisted living and medical centres opening soon, we’re in the perfect place," he said.

The centre is managed by Lorraine McMahon and her assistant Mina Previdi, who have a team of occupational therapists on hand.

The 2,200 sq ft centre offers products such as rise and recline wheelchairs, rollators and walking sticks for customers to buy.

It also provides accessible transport, driving lessons and assessments and information and advice.

Mr Denman added: “It was just a shell unit a couple of months ago and has undergone a complete refit.

“It’s spacious and we’re hoping local customers like it as much as we do.”

HAD’s chief executive Annabelle Waterfield said: “This is a dream come true - we’re all really looking forward to helping the local community in Hillingdon and the surrounding area.”

For more information call (01707) 324581 or (01895) 544311 or visit www.hadnet.org.uk