A DORSET wheelchair service has played an unlikely supporting role in an Oscar-nominated film.

Dorset HealthCare's Wheelchair Service made a unique contribution towards the Stephen Hawking biopic The Theory of Everything.

Set decorators for the film starring BAFTA winner and Oscar-nominated Eddie Redmayne found just what they were looking for when the service offered them an exact replica of a wheelchair used by Professor Hawking.

Back in 2013 the makers of the film began a national search for various wheelchairs in a bid to capture the authenticity of the era in which it is set.

They approached Posture Mobility Group and the National Wheelchair Manager's Forum with a request for three wheelchairs from the 1970s.

The Dorset Wheelchair Service was able to oblige with a pristine 8BL, a small self propelling wheelchair.

It was offered for the production of the film and features in the period when the scientist is faced with the onset of his motor neurone disease.

Monica Young, rehab engineering lead for Dorset HealthCare, said: “It was wonderful to be able to supply the chair and support the production of this fantastic film.

“The 8BL model is very hard to come by so we were very lucky to have this wheelchair available in good condition.

“The chair features heavily in the film and it is great to know that it has local roots to Dorset.

“We received a lovely letter of thanks from the production team at Ealing Studios and, since the film has been released, it has provided a great conversation starter amongst our clients with motor neurone disease.

“We hope that the film helps to raise awareness about motor neurone disease and the effects it has on the entire family.”

Dorset HealthCare's Wheelchair Service provides mobility equipment to residents of all ages with different disabilities who have a GP in Dorset to help improve mobility and increase independence.

If you would like to find out more about the service contact 01202 892874.