A VITAL Evesham charity for disabled people fears it may have to close through lack of funds.

For the last seven years Disability Awareness In Society (DAIS) has highlighted the problems of people with reduced mobility.

Both disabled themselves, Steve Arnold, 52 and Danny Walker, 33, visit about 40 schools a year with workshops and talks.

They have also been responsible for highlighting access problems in the town's shops and businesses and played a major part in getting better access to Evesham railway station.

Now they face a funding crisis which may result in the service closing at the end of the year.

Mr Arnold said: "We know that our personal approach to changing attitudes really does work.

"It will be such a shame if DAIS goes under because we have received thousands of positive letters from schools appreciating the social importance of our visits."

Danny Walker who helped found the charity said: "This has been a terrible year for DAIS.

"We have had funding appeals turned down everywhere from sources such as The National Lottery, Wychavon, Barclay's Community Trust and local businesses." The pair say they love their jobs which they carry out for nothing and there is one paid worker.

Mr Arnold and Mr Walker can be contacted on 01386 442952.