A DISABLED 63-year-old is overwhelmed after a council responded within days to his campaign to make a bridge more accessible, turning a step into a ramp for the wheelchair user.

Darlington Borough Council took swift action to improve access to a footbridge over the River Skerne, near Lakeside, following a request from local residents, many of which signed a petition by Kenneth Longstaff.

After coming down with a life changing illness in 2012, Mr Longstaff, who was a keen fell walker, was left paralysed.

The Parkside resident, who quickly accepted his wheelchair as a mode of transport, walks his dog along the river on Lakeside but became frustrated going up and down the same side, unable to access the circular route as a result of a step and barriers at the entrance to a bridge.

He said: "The town centre in Darlington is good for accessiblity but when you get out to the green spaces, that's where the problems start.

"Before I was struck down with a life changing illness, I was a keen fell walker. I still go outside every day.

"It's frustrating and there's all sorts I can't get through, like turnstiles, but pushchairs would probably struggle up this step too."

After a petition gained traction with local residents, with the backing of Darlington MP Peter Gibson, who said he understands the problems faced by wheelchair users due the experiences of family members, Darlington Council fixed the problem within days.

Mr Longstaff, after the bridge entrance was adjusted, added: "Wow, what a result and so quick, a real big thank you to everyone that signed and helped.

"This will be a great boost to the wellbeing of many wheelchair users.

"Thank you Street Scene and the Highways department for getting together and getting this done. I have now completed this circular route three times and enjoy every minute of it."

The man is also part of a mixed-ability walking group that meets at South Park on Saturdays, and says accessing the Lakeside circular route would make a big difference to fellow members.

Councillor Andy Keir, cabinet member for local services, said: “We are lucky to have some wonderful green spaces in the borough and we are keen to ensure everyone can enjoy them wherever possible.

“When we heard there was an access issue at the footbridge over the river near Lakeside our Street Scene and Highways teams joined forces to see if we could come up with a solution.

“I’m delighted to say staff have now installed ramps either side to allow access for wheelchairs and children’s buggies and pushchairs which we hope will help more people get out and about.”