Cambridge Model Engineering Society builds ride car for wheelchairs and mobility scooters

No passenger gets left behind when the trains hit the track at the Leamington Domain.

The Cambridge Model Engineering Society has built a ride car that carries wheelchairs and mobility scooters.

The ride car was designed and built by Cambridge man Allan Edwards, who is a member of the society.

Allan volunteers his time clipping tickets at the domain when the trains come out.

"I used to always see people in wheelchairs or mobility scooters on the side just watching.

"That prompted me to allow those people to enjoy what we enjoy."

Allan called on local business — welders, upholsterers and powder coaters etc. — to help out with supplies and their expertise.

After several months in the making the ride car had its maiden run on Sunday, August 19.

The ride car features a ramp at the back, allowing wheelchairs or mobility scooters no wider than 630mm to wheel onto a platform.

There is a seat for passengers who can be lifted out of their wheelchair, as well as a second seat for caregivers or family members.

The ride car is attached to the back of a model train and pulled along the miniature railway, through a tunnel and around the perimeter of the Leamington Domain in a scenic five-minute journey.

Cambridge Model Engineering Society member Corban Fray says the new ride car includes people who might have otherwise missed out on riding the miniature trains.

"Our goal is to make riding trains as accessible as possible, and to put a smile on people's faces."

"We don't want anyone missing out."

The Cambridge Model Engineering Society was founded and opened in 2012.

Formerly located in Rotorua, the group moved to Cambridge after its lease ended.

During winter the trains run every first and third Sunday of the month from 10am to 3pm, weather permitting. The group aims to open every Sunday during summer.

The Cambridge Model Engineering Society has four trains, including a steam train.

The public can ride for $2, and under five year olds ride for free with a paying caregiver.

Disabled passengers always ride free.

The volunteer-run society puts most of its profits back into the club to purchase tools, equipment, new trains or infrastructure.

The society is always looking for new members of all ages and abilities and welcomes any interested people to get in touch.

More information here.