As you may realise if you watch my "soyoukan" youtube channel, I use a mobility scooter to get around, and I create travel blogs with a disability access slant. My present scooter is about 6 years old now and has seen better days. The battery cable keeps popping out, the back end drops down kerbs with a bang, and more often I am stuck in a hole, with the usual solution of strangers having to come to the rescue.

However, the main issue is my back, which has been through major surgery, but it left me unable to walk for a while. I spent 2 years rehabbing myself and first off used a walker. Now I have a stick when out and about, but only for short distances.

I got myself up and walking but unfortunately long distances means I need help. The current and new scooters are small, mobile and turn on a dime. I use them on public transport but also I take them in my car using the specially mounted hoist.

The NEW model I have selected is the Pride Apex Rapid which has front and rear suspension, and is only 1 inch or so bigger than the current model, but has a better 18ah battery system, more reliable and giving longer run times.

Due to circumstances some of you know, my income has been drastically cut since the operation and now, while I am looking for new sources of income, I don't have the money to buy a new scooter.

The new scooter will be productive from day one, helping me deliver interesting and useful blogs, which are always free of charge to view as is the website forum for travel with a disability.

Please, Please, Please help to raise some money (I shall be contributing a small amount) so I can keep mobile and produce more work.

Thanks for ,listening, and I thank you in advance.