Grant Shapps joins the Herts Disability Sports Foundation (HDSF) at Stanborough Lakes for the official launch and naming ceremony of their two new accessible bell boats
Herts Disability Sports Foundation is a charity that works to support adults and children in Hertfordshire with physical and learning disabilities to participate in recreational sporting activities. The charity is well known locally for their accessible fleet of bikes based at Stanborough Park and their two wheel recycling and teaching programmes.
Following a successful Welwyn Hatfield Community Fund application, HDSF were able to acquire two new ten seater bell boats adapted with specially designed plastic seats and harnesses for those who cannot support themselves on a traditional plank boat seat. They also have access to a hoist on the pontoon and a changing place which means they really can cater for everyone.
Grant was invited to launch the bell boats alongside HDSF’s Director Ros Cramp. Ros commented that
“As a small charity, Herts Disability Sports Foundation were delighted that Grant Shapps agreed to launch our 2 new bell boats. These boats will enable people who can't access paddle sports in the traditional way, to be part of a team and enjoy this safe and fun paddling activity at Stanborough Park. If you want to give it a go as an individual or group, go to www.HDSF.co.uk”
Following short speeches from Grant and Ros, it was time to unveil the names of the boats. Selected via a competition, an eclectic selection of names were chosen: Boaty McBoatface/Spirit of Attenborough and Dominick the Donkey/The Spirit of Christmas.
With the names revealed to much joy from those present, Grant joined the enthusiastic young people for an outing in one of the new boats and was charged with steering the vessel.
Reflecting on the visit, Grant commented that “it was fantastic to have the opportunity to attend such a special launch event. I’d like to say a huge thank you to Ros and the Herts Disability Sports Foundation team as well as Greenwich Leisure and the Wel Hat Community Fund for their invaluable work allowing those with disabilities to experience the joys of paddle sports.”
