THEY cost less than an electric light bulb to charge, yet Kendal's fleet of Shopmobility scooters makes an invaluable difference to disabled people's everyday lives - and the popular service has just celebrated its 20th birthday.

Since the hire scheme launched in 1996, it has expanded to offer a welcoming one-stop shop where individuals, carers and families can find advice on benefits, healthy living and exercise; get help with applying for Blue Badge parking permits; buy or hire living aids at a small cost; or simply chat, in confidence, to someone who cares and understands.

"It's invaluable," said Pam Flitcroft, project development officer for Kendal Shopmobility and the One Voice centre for independent living, located on level three of the town's Westmorland Shopping Centre.

"People can be isolated, regardless of things like computers and the internet, and there are quite a lot of people who have moved up to the Lakes, their husband or wife has died and they are left up here with nobody. It can be quite hard for them.

"Having the opportunity to get out on a scooter, have a look round the shops and meet friends does make a difference. After shopping, the top two reasons are going for a coffee and going to the library."

Saturday's well-attended birthday party was designed to raise awareness of the service and to say thank you to its supporters, with children's activities, a bric-a-brac stall and an obstacle course for people to navigate aboard one of the fleet of almost 20 battery-powered scooters.

For casual users, hire is £5 for up to three hours, then £2 for each subsequent hour; or yearly membership costs £28 plus £2 per hire, with no time limit. Wheelchairs are also loaned for a donation.

Pam, who takes care of punctures and mechanical repairs, told the Gazette that the service costs around £19,000 per year to run. There are seven dedicated volunteers, plus trustees, and generous long-term supporters include Kendal Town Council, the Frieda Scott Charitable Trust, the Hadfield Trust and, more recently, Greggs bakery's own foundation.

To find out more, or to volunteer, simply call in to the office on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays, 10am to 4pm, or phone 01539-740933.