The Lord Lieutenant of Hampshire, Mrs Mary Fagan, has officially opened one of the county's first purpose-built Shopmobility centres in Petersfield.

The South Downs Association of Disabled People, formed nine years ago, has been running its Shopmobility scheme for five years in the town, expanding the advice, information and advocacy service for all ages and disabilities.

SDADP was operating from a shop unit, but Shopmobility service founder chairman Sue Williams had aspirations for a permanent facility in a central location with parking.

In co-operation with East Hampshire District Council, using £54,000 from a town centre infrastructure contribution paid by Waitrose, and Hampshire County Council, the new £80,000 centre has been built in the town's central car park.

Unveiling a brass plaque, Mrs Fagan said it was "a tremendous achievement made through a really special partnership" and praised Mrs Williams for her perseverence.

"Independence is the most important thing we all want - to be able to go shopping on your own is something most of us take for granted. For others this scheme makes it possible," she added.

District council chairman Chris Butler said it was his intention during his year in office to do as much as possible for people with disabilities and he was impressed by the efforts of South Downs, run entirely by volunteers.