A DISABLED project currently under threat after a funding crisis has received a boost from a new awards scheme.

BT Community Connections, which aims to award £1million-worth of internet ready PCs to community groups, has awarded the Accrington Shopmobility project one PC and a year's access to the internet.

The group is one of 54 to receive the award in the North West.

The group now plans to use the internet to allow people to book equipment on-line and provide general information and updates about the ShopMobility scheme, and will also teach people how to use the internet.

ShopMobility provides wheelchairs and scooters for disabled people to travel around Accrington town centre.

Richard Day, chairman of Accrington ShopMobility, said: "We are delighted with out award.

"The use of a PC will give disabled members of our community use of a computer, especially for those who cannot afford their own."

Last week, Daniel Thwaites donated two new wheelchairs from its charitable trust.

But the firm which provides 75 per cent of the group's sponsorship, Ashdale Healthcare Ltd, has now gone into receivership, casting a shadow over their future.

Organisers have vowed to carry on fighting for funding from all possible sources.

Ashdale had paid the rent and utility bills for the centre, in Whalley Road.