A SERVICE described as a "lifeline" for some Redditch residents has reached a special milestone.

Redditch Borough Council’s Shopmobility service was started 30 years ago.

To mark 30 years of providing mobility equipment to people who have difficulty getting around, a special two-day event is being held in the Kingfisher Shopping Centre next week.

Cupcakes, a raffle and tombola, a teddy competition and of course cups of tea will be available as part of the celebration, in space opposite Muffin Break.

Redditch Borough Councillor Greg Chance, whose portfolio covers Shopmobility, said: “Shopmobility is a lifeline for some of our residents – and visitors – as it means they can get out of the house and safely get around.

“It is a mini community too as, over the last 30 years, we have built up a list of loyal customers.

“This party is a great chance for them to get together and catch up and of course to celebrate three decades of Shopmobility.”

It hasn't always been an easy ride for the service, which costs the council £69,000 a year.

In 2010 it was dealt a serious blow when the then management team at the Kingfisher Shopping Centre withdrew its funding for the scheme and earlier this year people who use the service were told they would have to pay a small fee in an attempt to help save the council £2.8m over the next four years.

The celebrations run from 10am until 3pm on June 28 and 29.