Take the weight off your feet in shops

12:59pm Saturday 10th May 2008

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Disabled, elderly, pregnant or tired Twickenham shoppers can sit down without pressure to buy in shops after the launch of a new scheme.

Sit Stop was introduced recently in Starbucks, and is now supported by other Twickenham businesses including the Cabbage Patch pub, Waitrose, Squires garden centre and Lloyds pharmacy.

Businesses participating in the scheme display a distinctive yellow sticker in their window Alex Brining, manager of Richmond-based voluntary group Richmond Aid, which is leading the scheme said: "They may be pregnant, elderly, or disabled, they may be unwell, have tired feet or be laden down with shopping, or they may just need to stop and wait for someone.

"Whatever it is that's OK whether or not they are shopping or using the services provided."

Area manager for Starbucks, which has piloted the scheme, Daniela Stones said: "We have had no problems and are really pleased to be able to offer a seat to anyone who needs to sit and stop''.

Other companies wishing to offer a place for non-buying customers to sit can contact sitstop.org.uk or email Alex Brining at a.brining@richmondaid.org.uk