Former Mayor of Truro Embarks on Epic 500-Mile Challenge for Cornwall Air Ambulance

Steven Webb’s Journey to Raise £20,000 for Life-Saving Charity

Yesterday, the town of Truro witnessed an inspiring start to a groundbreaking challenge as Steven Webb, former Mayor of Truro, set off on his ambitious 500-mile journey around Cornwall. Surrounded by cheers and bell-ringing, Steven began his challenge at the Alverton, cheered on by local dignitaries including Truro and Falmouth MP Jayne Kirkham, Truro Mayor Carol Swain, Mayoress Sarah Douglas-Martin, and Town Crier Lionel Knight.

A Challenge Like No Other

Steven Webb, who became paralysed below the neck following a life-altering diving accident in 1991, is determined to complete the Cornwall 500 challenge—a formidable 500-mile trek around the perimeter of Cornwall in just 20 days. Steven aims to travel up to 30 miles a day in his electric wheelchair, raising funds for the Cornwall Air Ambulance Trust (CAAT) and promoting accessibility across the county.

Steven’s story is deeply intertwined with the Cornwall Air Ambulance, which played a crucial role in saving his life 33 years ago. On 1 September 1991, Steven was airlifted to the Duke of Cornwall Spinal Unit after his condition worsened following the accident. Reflecting on that pivotal moment, Steven said, “Without the air ambulance, I would have ended up in the back of an ambulance for about 12 hours travelling to Salisbury, the specialist spinal unit, travelling about 15 miles an hour. The air ambulance was able to fly me in just over an hour with a paramedic, keeping me safe so I could get the help I needed without having to wait for hours.”

Raising Funds for a Crucial Cause

The Cornwall Air Ambulance Trust is in the midst of its #HELi2 campaign, aiming to raise £2.85 million for a second helicopter. So far, over £1 million has been raised, with Steven aiming to contribute £20,000 from his challenge. Since the official launch of the Cornwall 500 challenge last month, over £1,000 has already been raised towards his target. Supporters can donate directly via Steven’s JustGiving page.

Tim Bunting, CEO of the Cornwall Air Ambulance Trust, highlighted the importance of the charity, stating, “Last year was 10% busier than 2022, and May this year was the busiest on record for our air ambulance crews. It’s now that we need two aircraft in Cornwall to be able to save even more lives.”

Karen Hurn, Head of Fundraising and Philanthropy at CAAT, added, “To think that Steven has chosen us is just overwhelming for us all. The whole team is behind us, and we know he’s going to smash both the challenge and his fundraising target.”

Local Support for a Local Hero

The support for Steven’s challenge was evident at the Alverton yesterday, with MP Jayne Kirkham praising the endeavour, saying, “This is the most amazing thing he’s doing. Cornwall Air Ambulance is such a crucial charity for Cornwall, and I’m really pleased to be here being supportive.” Truro Mayor Carol Swain echoed the sentiment, emphasising the importance of the air ambulance in a county with only one hospital and A&E department.

Steven’s journey is not just about the challenge; it’s about showcasing the beauty of Cornwall and raising awareness of the essential services that help keep its residents safe. As Steven himself said, “I’m going to love seeing parts of Cornwall I’ve never seen. I love being in my chair and just being out and seeing Cornwall. So what better way of giving back than going around the county of Cornwall, doing 500 miles, raising money to help them to continue saving lives.”

Follow the Journey

Steven’s journey will be documented daily, with activities and events announced at the start of each day. To keep up with Steven’s progress and find out where he will be, residents are encouraged to follow him on the Cornwall 500 social media channels and stay tuned to local media.

With the support of the people of Cornwall, Steven is confident he can meet both his fundraising target and complete the challenge, leaving a lasting legacy for the county he loves.