After a fantastic first season, Nairn Beach Wheelchairs will resume operation in March 2026.

The charity, one of the organisations being supported by fundraising at the Highlands and Islands Press Ball and Media Awards, recorded 77 hires in 2025.

Its free, specialised all-terrain wheelchairs, deliver a unique and inclusive seaside experience for people aged from four years old to 95.

This year also saw 21 local people volunteer to help support the wheelchair users.

The volunteers receive bespoke training in safeguarding, confidentiality and data protection regulations, understanding learning disabilities, seaside safety as well as tides and ecology and also hoist use.

This is an ongoing rolling programme and these regular meet ups help deepen the sense of community in the group.

A major development planned for 2026 is the introduction of floating wheelchairs.

The emotional impact of the charity’s work is obvious from feedback provided by users and carers.

“Absolutely amazing to get on to the beach after 20 years of being unable to…”

“It was a life-changing opportunity for our daughter… Keep up the good work guys, you make such a wonderful difference.”

“Having the beach wheelchair for Dad was fantastic – it enabled him to join the rest of the family by the sea for the first time in many years.”

“Today a dream came true for me to see my daughter on the beach – thank you all.”

“Everyone loved getting the chance to get on the beach – some had not been on it in 20 years.”

Families repeatedly praised the volunteers as “helpful, friendly, brilliant”, describing the booking process as “so easy” and the overall service as a “fantastic resource for Nairn and the surrounding area.”