FOUR Somerset groups have clubbed together to buy a mobility scooter for a man to help him regain his independence.

Kind hearted volunteers Burnham-on-Sea Lions, Glastonbury and Street Lions, Minehead and District Lions teamed up with staff at Independent Living to raise more than £500 to buy a new mobility scooter for Bridgwater man, Chris Annis.

The group presented Mr Annis with his new scooter at the end of last year and raised the funds by marshalling sporting events and collecting donations at the Burnham-on-Sea carnival.

Phil Cooke, president of Burnham-on-Sea Lions, said: “We are thrilled to have been able to buy this mobility scooter for Chris to help him get back his independence.

“It is really hard to lose your independence due to illness or disability and we knew that we wanted to help Chris as soon as we heard about his situation.

“I am very thankful to Glastonbury and Street Lions, Minehead and District Lions and Independent Living for helping to fund this. It is great that Lions clubs across Somerset can work together to help people in our community.”

Phil said Burnham Lions raised more than £3,000 through fundraising last year and the club is on the search for 10 community groups or charities to give funding to.

“We now find that we are in a position to provide money to local deserving causes and invite groups and individuals to submit requests for consideration.

“Over the last 12 months we have made several donations to local food banks, Weston Hospice and a local play group to mention just a few and we would like to give funding to more groups.”

To apply call Claire on 0788261251.