A young South Hams man who is determined to overcome his mobility issues and learning difficulties has made a giant stride towards more independent living.

Able Sharp recently became one of the first residents of South Devon Rural Housing Association’s (SDR) new, specially adapted, ‘stepping stone’ apartments at Elmhirst Court in Dartington.

Twenty-four-year-old Able contracted meningitis as a toddler and the infection severely restricted his mobility and ability to learn.

He uses an electric wheelchair, plus other mobility aids, and since childhood has lived with his mother, Alex, in another SDR property at nearby Bramble Close.

Alex said: “As a young child Able used to go past the Brimhay site on his way to nursery school.

“Little did we know that one day it would be the site of his new home and the key to a much more independent lifestyle.

“When we heard about the new apartments, Able was one of the first to apply.

“It’s great that he’s been able to find a home where he can have his own space, yet within the friendly community where he grew up and where he knows so many people.

“He loves his new flat, which has a spare room for a support worker to sleep in if they need to stay overnight.

“He’s met other residents and has several new friends already.”

Since September, when Able moved in, Alex has been working with Devon County Council to make changes to the ground floor flat that will improve accessibility and ease some of Able’s everyday tasks such as washing, cooking and personal hygiene.

She said Able is proud of his new apartment, where he’s comfortable and can spend quality time with his fiancée Leanne, who is the “love of his life”.

The couple, who met at South Devon College, are already cooking meals together and planning outings in Able’s mobility car.

Alex added: “Able already feels completely at home in his new flat.

“Each day, with the help of his fantastic support workers, he’s gaining the skills that will ensure he has a healthy, independent future.

“It’s what every parent hopes for and I can begin to step back, confident that he’s thriving.

“I couldn’t wish for a safer, more friendly and supportive environment for Able to live in the heart of the village we both love.”

Asked to sum up her view of the 11 new apartments at Elmhirst Court, Alex said: “It’s a real gift to the community.”

The official opening ceremony planned for the 11 new apartments has been postponed due to Covid concerns for the safety of tenants, staff and guests.

Due to have taken place on December 15, it has now been rescheduled to early spring 2022.

Christine Candlish, SDR’s chief executive, said: “It is with great regret that we felt it necessary to postpone this event, which we’ve all been looking forward to for so long.

“Whilst we know this will be disappointing, our priority is keeping our residents, staff and visitors safe.

“The latest developments in terms of rising cases across Devon and the current uncertainty over the risks posed by Omicron Variant mean it’s vital to follow the latest guidance – as we’ve done since this pandemic was first declared.

“We had already taken Covid safety steps but, with some of our residents being especially vulnerable to infection, we had no choice but to err on the side of safety.

“We and our partners will get together as early as possible in 2022 to celebrate this fine building.”