Former mayor begins 500-mile challenge in wheelchair

Mr Webb started the challenge 33 years to the day he was helped by Cornwall Air Ambulance after a diving accident

Former Truro mayor Steven Webb has set off on a 500-mile (805km) journey around Cornwall in an electric wheelchair.

He set off from Truro on Sunday, raising funds for the Cornwall Air Ambulance Trust.

Completing the Cornwall 500 Challenge will take about 20 days, covering up to 30 miles (48km) a day.

Mr Webb was paralysed after a diving accident when he was 18, an accident Cornwall Air Ambulance attended 33 years ago to the day.

Mr Webb said he wanted the challenge to inspire others to overcome obstacles

Mr Webb said: "It's going to take its toll on me and the chair so it's not going to be easy, it's going to be pushing it but fingers crossed, hopefully I won't end up in too many potholes."

Since the diving accident, Mr Webb has needed 24-hour care.

"My journey shows that disability doesn't define potential. Life is precious, and I'm committed to making a positive impact and inspiring others to overcome their obstacles," he added.

Mr Webb was elected mayor of Truro in 2021.