An Ely coffee roastery is raising funds to improve accessibility for wheelchairs trying to access shops via a local car park. 

Staff from Silver Oak Coffee recently launched a fundraiser to help pay for work to lower the kerb in Newnham Street car park. 

The roastery, which runs a coffee truck at Ely Market, said it had been contacted by wheelchair users who struggle to access the site from the carpark because of kerbs. 

Susanne Stent who owns Silver Oak Coffee said: "We are used to people in mobility scooters, electric wheelchairs and with prams and buggies to be able to easily come and get a coffee.

"The Market Square is a real vibrant hub and pretty well inclusive of everyone in our community."

Following concerns raised by wheelchair users, Andi Bulai, manager of the Yard, contacted East Cambridgeshire District Council who provided a costing to build a dropped kerb. 

Although the council were unable to fund the cost of the works, the authority offered guidance and costings, which enabled Andi to set up a GoFundMe page to raise the £2,142 needed. 

She said: "It is a lot of money for one person, but if lots of us contribute a little, we can get there.

"It is a difficult climate in which to raise funds as everyone is tightening their belts, but I know Silver Oak often contributes to charities and even sponsored an Oak Tree for the park one year.

"Any tiny amount will help us on our journey and if people would rather contribute cash, they can do that too. Just come and see me at the Yard.”

For more information about our fundraising campaign, you can contact Andi on 07498 190690 or via info@silveroakcoffee.co.uk.

East Cambridgeshire District Council has been approached for comment.