A LONG-term partnership between Experience Community and Yorkshire Water saw a group of mountain trike users exploring Swinsty and Fewston reservoirs recently, providing them with an opportunity to use the specialist kit and build their confidence in accessing the countryside.

Experience Community is a not-for-profit Community Interest Company that helps people with disabilities access the outdoors through a range of inclusive activities, such as using a mountain trike – an adapted off-road capable wheelchair.

Leeds-based Marie Harrison, who attended the recent ramble, said: “Swinsty and Fewston reservoirs are still one of my favourite locations to visit with Experience Community. It has a perfect blend of scenery and different terrains to suit all levels of ramblers.

“As a disabled person who loves the outdoors, this particular Yorkshire Water site always makes me feel grateful for such locations I am still able to visit. The accessible bathroom, disabled parking spaces and ice cream van make it one of my top three.”

Another visitor, Sue Yates from Leicestershire, said: “I had a lot of fun at the ramble around Fewston and Swinsty reservoirs. The car park has plenty of disabled parking spaces and the paths around both reservoirs are fully accessible to mountain trikes – and where there were steps, an accessible route had been built around them. I liked that the route was not completely level and there were some quite steep parts that were challenging to descend - it was really enjoyable now that I am more confident in going downhill.

“I always feel I learn it bit more about mountain triking with each ramble I take part in."

As a result of the partnership, which has been running for a number of years, use of Swinsty and Fewston reservoirs by people with disabilities has grown.

Phil Tennyson, countryside and recreation advisor at Yorkshire Water, said: “We want everyone who wishes to enjoy the outdoors to feel comfortable doing so, regardless of their personal circumstances. Our partnership with Experience Community has enabled us to encourage access to our sites for those with disabilities and has been invaluable in terms of ensuring that we’re offering an accessible and enjoyable experience for a wider range of visitors.”