The Revd Matt Martinson, Vicar of St John’s church, Bransholme, Hull is preparing to set off on the 1169 mile challenge to complete the road trip from John O’Groats to Lands’ End. It’s a tough enough challenge for an able bodied person, but Matt’s been confined to a wheelchair for the last 9 years.
Starting on Monday 12th September, Matt plans to become the first, unsupported disabled man, to propel himself the length of the country. He hopes to complete the journey in under three weeks.
Matt, who has been vicar of St John’s for the last four years, is tackling the adventure to raise £25,000 towards a rebuilding project for church, which is situated on one of Europe’s largest council estates.
“For as long as a can remember I’ve always wanted to do this journey,” says Matt. “While other disabled people have completed the challenge with support, I am hoping to be the first to do it alone. St John’s building needs to be overhauled to allow it to really support the community it serves. We need £300,000 to complete the project and I hope this tough test will encourage people to get behind all we are doing here at and for St John’s.”
On the road coming south, motorists won’t be able to miss Matt. He’ll be using a specially adapted wheelchair for the record breaking journey. It includes an electric assistance for an additional front wheel. Matt will also tow a small trailer behind the chair to carry his essential supplies.
For more details of Matt’s journey or to sponsor him go on his website www.end-to-end.co.uk