I WAS rather disappointed to see the letter last week concerning the disabled access facilities. It was very generalised.

Perhaps other towns are not as well off as we are in this area but I must speak up and say that Penarth and Cardiff are certainly not out of bounds for disabled people.

There may be some individual premises but they are few and far between. I have found that most of the places I wish to enter have low steps and sliding doors. In others there is always someone who will hold a door open.

I am lucky, I can walk a short distance, but others may need help in entering premises.

In addition to that, I have always found that people offer to help by giving a lift or a push, especially when I am trying to get onto a pavement that is too high for me (council please note).

Drivers of all sorts of vehicles stop when they see me near the curb at a crossing. They are very considerate.

Furthermore, Arriva trains provide an excellent service for scooter and wheelchair users. When they see such people waiting on the platform they provide a ramp for the user to get onto the train. Then they telephone ahead so one finds the station staff waiting at the other end. This service is always done with a smile. It is much appreciated.

The charity in question is of course worthy of praise but so are the shops and stores in Penarth and Cardiff

Brian Stephens

Via email