Wheelchair record athlete blown away by support

Lexi Chambers is hoping to travel from John O'Groats to Land's End in 45 days, using only a standard wheelchair

An army veteran and wheelchair athlete from Devon says she has been "blown away" by support from the public as she heads into the final week of her world record attempt journey from John O'Groats to Land's End.

Lexi Chambers, from Exeter, is hoping to complete End2End - the Rugby Relay - in 45 days in a standard wheelchair, while visiting as many rugby grounds as she can.

On Thursday she travelled through Cullompton and was applauded by members of the community, including children from local schools and nurseries.

She told BBC Radio Devon it was "the most special moment [she's] ever had".

'Crying happy tears'

Chambers lost her left leg three years ago due to complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), and has gone on to break multiple world records, including for the fastest half and full marathons using a non-sport wheelchair.

The proceeds raised for End2End will go towards the Aaron Lewis Foundation and The Exeter Chiefs Foundation, which she describes as being "meaningful initiatives".

This week she reached Devon and has been journeying through Exeter and East Devon

Speaking about the moment she arrived in mid-Devon, Chambers said: "Wow, I thought I'd have some words to describe what I wheeled into.

"It started off with an amazing group of children clapping on the side of the road, I was beyond blown away, and people from local businesses even came out.

"My face was a combination grinning from ear to ear and crying happy tears; I was not expecting anything like that.

"There were so many people clapping, cheering and calling my name.

"I don't think anything can top that moment; it is the most special moment I've ever had."