People with disabilities could now try a whole new experience, thanks to a diving course run by a Melksham-based firm.

Alex Slade, recently qualified as an instructor for the disabled and has set up the not-for-profit 3D Diving Services in the town to offer scuba classes to the mentally and physically disabled.

She said: “I have been teaching diving for over 20 years, but recently qualified as a disabled diving instructor.

“We are planning a launch evening for people to come along and try it for free, so they can experience being weightless in three dimensions, which can be quite an experience for people in wheelchairs as it lets them move around freely.”

Lottery funding has been requested to finance the scheme, which will not charge disabled people any more than able-bodied divers.

The group is also planning a black tie ball at the Pump Rooms in Bath on November 23 to raise further funds, where the Bring Down the House soul band will perform.

The free taster takes place on September 13, at Culverhay Pool in Bath.

Ms Slade said: “We’re based in Wiltshire, but we’re using that pool as it has a nine-foot deep end.

“We’ll run courses on a Friday evening, which will be a nice, relaxing thing to do at the end of the week.

“Some people may not want to do a regular course, but they can still come along once a month for an open session.”

For more information, call Ms Slade on 07866 284553.