DERBYSHIRE: MP opens new factory keeping disabled on the roads

Passionate about the independence and freedom of individuals with disabilities to be able to use the road and transport system, Patrick will be reviewing the best that the UK offers to enable them to do just that.

During his visit, Patrick will be trying out for himself some of the best-selling vehicle adaptation products that Autochair, of Wood Street North, Meadow Lane Ind Estate. Alfreton, offer to people with reduced mobility.

In addition, Patrick will make a key speech and host a question and answer session addressing the Coalition plans for disabled motoring which features the recent Government initiative the Personal Independence Payment scheme.

The celebrations for the factory opening are the culmination of over 30 years success for Autochair as they also celebrate their 30th birthday this year.

Managing Director Matthew Walker will also be announcing a new major international distribution agreement to export British products in excess of £2M per annum.

A number of prestigious guests will also be meeting Patrick and joining the barbecue lunch celebrations including injured UK Service Personnel and one of Autochair’s original Autochair Lite owners Mr Michael-John Wilkinson and one of Autochair’s oldest customers who is 84 years-old.

Representatives David Horne, Specialist Mobility Operations Manager, and Graham Farrant, WAV and Adaptations Account Manager from Motability, a UK national charity which assists the mobility and transport needs of over 600,000 people every year, will also be attending the open day alongside over 100 National & International Trade Dealers.

Regional and local community representatives including Lady Hazel Rutter, President of the Disabled Motorists Federation, the Mayor of Alfreton, Councillor John Walker, and Nigel Mills, Conservative MP for Amber Valley, will be meeting Autochair customers and staff and viewing a display of 30 adapted customer vehicles – representing each year of Autochair’s manufacturing history.

The company has also recently launched its most innovative adaptation product to-date, the Autochair Liberty – an automated rooftop wheelchair carrier designed specifically to provide independence for drivers with reduced mobility. This approach to product development and innovation resulted in the company receiving the current Motability’s Adaptation Supplier of the Year Award.