THE Mayor of Winchester, Cllr Eleanor Bell, has presented certificates to the most accessible shops and businesses in central Winchester.

The event on March 11 at Abbey House, attended by Paul Spencer, of Winchester Business Improvement District, was the culmination of the first phase of the Good Accessibility Scheme organised by Winchester Area Access for All (WAAFA).

WAAFA is a forum for highlighting, and attempting to remove, obstacles to accessing shops, facilities and public areas. It is mainly, but not exclusively, those with disabilities who encounter such barriers.

Six businesses received Bronze awards, in appreciation of their efforts to overcome unavoidable problems such as steps and confined spaces.

Seven Silver awards were given to businesses whose physical access and staff awareness are particularly good.

Two Gold awards were made to businesses whose premises and practices are outstanding. In all shops surveyed it was found that staff have good-will and understanding of all customers’ needs. As a follow-up, WAAFA can provide information about accessibility.

The bulk of the work for this was done by Janet Chierchia and Anna Brisbane of Winchester GO LD and Andy Cadle-Mills of the Spinal Injuries Association.