Paralympian silver medalist opens factory
BY BUZZ
Paralympian silver medallist, Karen Darke has opened a new Gowrings Mobility factory in Thatcham.
The official opening took place on Thursday 27 September and employees were able to witness the plaque unveiling and speak to Karen.
Ian Bosworth, Managing Director of Gowrings Mobility commented “Having a permanent home for Gowrings has meant that we can invest in equipment and a new layout that streamlines the production processes. New models such as our SpacePlus Doblo and new-design Movano have been quickly introduced into this new environment.”
Ian added “We have included engineering development bays and areas dedicated to the refurbishment of second hand Gowrings WAVs in the new facility.”
Nine pupils from Brookfields School in Tilehurst in Reading, were invited to visit the new factory and meet Karen. They also got to try hand cycling which is Karen’s Paralympic sport.
Karen said “I loved their enthusiasm towards the Paralympics. They seemed a really positive and happy set of individuals and it was fantastic that they were up for having a go on the handbike.”
Karen added “I found it really interesting to meet some of the engineers and tour the factory to see how the vehicles are converted. I also really enjoyed meeting some of Gowrings Mobility’s customers, and learning about how the vehicles have improved their lives. I strongly believe that personal mobility is really important so to be working with Gowrings Mobility this year is a great honour.”
Gowrings Mobility has been one of the UK’s leading manufacturers and suppliers of wheelchair passenger vehicles for over 40 years. The new factory represents a £1.5 million investment in the site dedicated to British automotive specialist manufacturing.
