Queensgate’s hi-tech gift will help Peterborough Sailability as it takes to the water

Staff at the Queensgate Shopping Centre have donated two laptops to Peterborough Sailability, which provides sailing experiences for people with disabilities.

The donation was made because the Covid-19 health crisis meant the centre’s staff were not able to join the annual Sailability event held each year at Ferry Meadows.

The centre has supported Sailability for more than five years but Covid-19 has forced the postponement of this year’s event.

Richard Dykes, from Peterborough Sailability, said: “We are very grateful for the generous donation of laptop computers on behalf of Queensgate and ITVET.

“These machines will assist our new up to date booking system, which in turn will help provide a better service for our disabled clients.

“The work that we do is only possible with the help of partners such as Queensgate, who have provided staff and equipment support.”

Peterborough Sailability is run by volunteers and operates two days a week between April and October each year when it takes about 75 people out onto the water each day.

The volunteers also maintain the boats and protective clothing, and manage the bookings, throughout their sailing season.

Carol Wakelin, Environmental Manager at Queensgate Shopping Centre, said: “We’re delighted to donate a pair of new laptops to Sailability and look forward to joining them again for a future day on the water at Ferry Meadows, whenever it’s safe to do so.”