Cyclists in 12-hour event for teen's equipment fund

Poppy said she felt "overwhelmed by the kind and generous support so far"

About 20 people are taking part in a 12-hour spinathon to help a teenager buy specialist mobility equipment.

Poppy Garton, 19, from Wells, has cerebral palsy and hopes to raise £9,000 for an Innowalk, a machine similar to a gym cross-trainer, which would help her exercise at home.

"The Innowalk enables me to exercise both sides of my body in a standing position at the same time, and will help prevent me needing corrective surgery in the future," Ms Garton said.

The spinathon, run by fitness instructor Rachel Rostron, is taking place at Kingdom Training Gym. Participants will continuously ride stationary bikes from 07:00 to 19:00 BST on Saturday.

Poppy wants to exercise at home using the new equipment

"I’ve been overwhelmed by the kind and generous support so far. It’s really amazing that my local community are stepping up to help me stay healthy into my adulthood," Ms Garton added.

The spinathon will also involve a cake stall, evening barbecue and online auction, organised by Poppy's mum, Lisa Reakes.

Ms Reakes said she was grateful to the community which has helped with donations for the auction.

"I’ve been humbled by the success of my requests to local people," she said.

Ms Reakes is also doing a trek on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in October to help raise funds.