BBC reporter Hattie McCann visited The Garden House in Buckland Monachorum, and Postbridge Visitor Centre on Dartmoor to find out more about the Trampers, how the idea of Countryside Mobility came about, and the difference the service is making.
They did a fantastic job introducing the charity and what good Trampers have done for the South West. Trustee Sam Hyde makes a special appearance, delving more into his experience supporting Countryside Mobility, and how using the Trampers himself to explore Devon’s outdoors has helped his mental health and wellbeing.
“I used to enjoy walking in nature and nature is good for the soul, and I just convinced myself that it was closed to me and I couldn’t do it anymore. All of a sudden, for there to be options you can get out in the country is wonderful. It means you can contribute fully to a family day out and not feel like you’re the one slowing everything up or not being able to make it happen.”
Sam Hyde, Trustee at Disability Together
They also got to see the range of the areas where we offer Tramper hire services, from the moorland and forests of Dartmoor National Park and to the colourful hillside gardens of The Garden House, Devon.
Another of those featured was Yvonne Pope who was one of the two people who dreamed up the idea of Countryside Mobility over 16 years ago, and has continued to play a key role ever since as one of two auditors with lived experience who test out prospective hire locations. Look out for a video and article in the next few weeks where Yvonne talks about her inspiration and how it was brought to fruition.
We’re really grateful for the opportunity of this coverage as it meant we were able to talk about the impact of our Tramper hire services. (While the Spotlight video is no longer live, you can see Sam talking in the reel below).
Hattie McCann also has a fantastic write-up on the BBC site, covering a variety of Tramper sites and stories from those who have benefitted from the Trampers, with thanks to Yvonne Pope and Kate Wass for sharing their experiences.
BBC Radio Devon included a feature on Countryside Mobility and the lifechanging difference Trampers are making to people.
You can hear from Sam Hyde on the episode of BBC Radio Devon hosted by Caroline Densley, which will be available until Friday 2 October. 2026 The timestamps are 1:12:33 are 1:21:32.
Our thanks to both The Garden House and Postbridge Visitor Centre for taking part.
