DISABLED youngsters learned exciting new wheelchair skills during a fun-packed activity week staged at Harlow Fields School.
Young wheelchair users aged between three and 15 took enjoyed activities including relay racing, basketball, canoeing and orienteering during the annual Wheelchair Skills Week.
The event was organised and supervised by staff from children’s therapy sites in west Essex and participants were encouraged to invite their able-bodied siblings to join the fun.
A spokesman for the Essex County Council-backed event told the Star: "Highlights included a trip to Harlow Centre for Outdoor Learning on Burnt Mill Lane, which enabled older participants to enjoy expert instruction and facilities whilst sampling canoeing and archery.
"Siblings were encouraged to use wheelchairs throughout giving them the opportunity to experience and understand how it feels for their sister or brother as a wheelchair user.
"Therapy staff work closely with children and their families year round and really enjoy providing these additional activities aimed at promoting independent wheelchair use and access to sports as well as socialising to help build confidence and self esteem."
