IT WAS back in September that disabled Hampshire pensioner Eric Pettman became the proud owner of a motorised buggy.

But it has remained permanently parked in the front lounge of his home in St Deny's, Southampton ever since.

Mr Pettman, 74, has been unable to get the smart machine into his home because the doorstep has a four-inch drop.

But help was at hand.

Mr Pettman is a staunch supporter and president of number 2428 Hedge End Air Squadron. His wife Pam is the squadron's treasurer. When the air cadets heard of the transport dilemma they swooped in to help.

In a hush-hush operation the air cadets set to work making two ramps. It was the best Christmas present that Eric could have had as the cadets descended on his home to fit the ramps across the doorstep of his ground-floor flat.

Mr Pettman, who was a flight engineer in the RAF and is a member of the Royal Air Force Association, was then able to take his buggy for a test run. He is unable to walk far because of rheumatoid arthritis.

He said: "The buggy was delivered in September but I have not been able to take it out because of the drop on the step.

"I did not know the cadets were making the wooden ramps. They certainly kept it very quiet.

"It is a lovely Christmas present and is very much appreciated. Now I have got the freedom of Southampton."

The buggy has a speed of ten mph and can travel at a distance of 45mph before its battery needs recharging. Eric is now looking forward to making sorties to the local shops.

Six boys and girls, supervised by squadron officer, Flight Lieutenant Geoff Pitts, worked on making the ramps. They even made waterproof coverings.

The squadron's commanding officer, Flight Lieutenant John Reid said: "Eric has been a staunch supporter of the squadron and has been involved with aircraft since he was 14.

"When we heard that he needed help to get ramps we decided to rustle something up."

Anyone interested in joining the squadron can contact John on 01329 847405.