POLITICAL figures have taken on patron roles at a Basingstoke organisation helping disabled people.

Maria Miller MP recently attended the annual general meeting of Basingstoke and District Disability Forum (BDDF), held at Popley Fields Community Centre where it was announced she was to become a Patron of BDDF, alongside councillors Simon Bound and Jane Frankum.

Maria said: “The BDDF does a fantastic job in signposting disabled people to make sure that they can access the help and information they need, and raising awareness of disability issues with businesses, organisations and members of the public more generally.”

“I was honoured to be asked to become a Patron of the BDDF, and was delighted to accept the role. I will continue to do what I can to support them, and the wonderful work they do to bring together the many other voluntary organisations in Basingstoke who work to provide advice, assistance and activities for disabled people and their carers.”

It was announced at the meeting that Lady Judith Colman, who has been patron of BDDF for several years, had been awarded the title of life patron of BDDF.

Those attending the event heard from the interim chair of BDDF Robert Heyfron about the forum’s activities over the last year, and plans for 2018/19.