A VAST range of events to herald new laws to help the disabled is planned in for the centre of Ludlow next weekend.

It will include exhibitions, entertainment and a chance to find out more about the services available to the disabled, the able-bodied and anyone who knows a disabled person.

"The aims are simply to raise general awareness of access issues, the requirements of the Disability Discrimination Act and also the activities and assistance available to those who may be considered less able-bodied than others," said Malcolm Marsh, access officer with South Shropshire District Council.

"There is an emphasis on the fact that being disabled does not necessarily mean that a person cannot have an active life. The aim is to entertain and educate."

The weekend was the idea of district councillor Richard Philips, chairman of South Shropshire Access Group, which campaigns strongly for disabled rights.

It starts on Friday in Ludlow Assembly Rooms with a champagne seminar, in which Barbara Lisicki, a disability equality trainer, will explain what businesses and organisations must do to comply with the Act.

The Assembly Rooms, Ludlow College and Castle Square will be full of advice and activities on Saturday and Sunday.

Sir William Lawrence, who is a wheelchair user, will officially open the event.

Before then, another wheelchair user Johnny Crescendo will give the first of a series of musical gigs. In the approach to the refectory adjoining Harley Centre, there will be displays and stalls giving information on financial benefits and support groups.

Travel group Lunn Poly will have advice on tailoring a package holiday to meet special needs and the Pines Trust will talk about its accessible facilities for holidays in Bishop's Castle.

There will be a free park and ride service running from the South Shropshire Leisure Centre in Bromfield Road.

That will go via the Somerfield car park, where a multi-sensory mobile unit will offer a range of therapies.