WALLINGFORD'S Accessible Boat Club (WABC) has ordered its Wheelyboat after two and a half years of work.

The club took the 'milestone step forward' on Sunday by commissioning the building of the purpose built craft, designed to allow disabled people the chance to enjoy a wheelchair accessible powerboat.

READ AGAIN: The launch of the appeal - Wallingford Accessible Boat Club

John Jenkins MBE, Chairman of WABC Trustees, explained: “Our dream has remained constant as has our determination to succeed, ever since we formed our small group of four local volunteers at the end of 2016. We have had plenty of set-backs along the way but we are now sufficiently confident we can make it all the way, we have committed the release of funds and commissioned what will be a purpose-built Wheelyboat to our specification.

"We have had huge help along the way with the support and goodwill from the local community for which we are all very grateful. We could not have got this far without them.”

ALSO READ: Full story - WABC sailing towards target

The Wheelyboat will form 'the heart of the WABC operations', by enabling wheelchair users to simply roll-on and off the flat-bottomed boat.

It is now expected to be delivered by the end of July – with 'operational trials' during August and September.

The formal opening of the Club and 'christening' of the Wheelyboat is now expected in early Spring 2020.

In the meantime, WABC are still aiming to fundraise and attract more volunteers.