Former MP with sepsis completes zip wire challenge

Lord Mackinlay of Richborough completed the zip wire to raise funds for UK Sepsis Trust

A former Kent MP, who lost his hands and feet after a life-threatening episode of sepsis, has gone down a zip wire to raise money for charity.

Lord Mackinlay of Richborough, Craig Mackinlay, the former Conservative MP for South Thanet, is fundraising for UK Sepsis Trust.

He said he also wanted to raise awareness of sepsis and help to provide resources for people who were adjusting to life after the condition.

Mackinlay admitted that he had not practised going on a zip wire ahead of the event.

Lord Mackinlay had raised almost £2,500 prior to doing the zip wire on Tuesday

Ahead of the challenge, he told BBC Radio Kent: "I'm sure the safety levels will be high.

"I thought I'd give it a go and set up a charity fundraiser to raise some money too."

He had raised almost £2,500 prior to doing the zip wire on Tuesday.

"I'm now in the House of Lords, which was a lovely thing for the former Prime Minister to do, and gives me a say in the political game," he said.

The Lord added: "Day-to-day is ok. I did 9,000 steps on Monday, but the hands are a bit more difficult.

"They make me feel whole again. They look like real hands and I feel like a human being again.

"My daughter, who is coming up to six-years-old, puts my legs on and helps me out too."