Rain, Wind, and Breakdowns: Steven Webb’s Cornwall 500 Challenge Faces Rough Week

Steven Webb is continuing his inspiring Cornwall 500 Challenge despite facing relentless wind, rain, and technical mishaps along the way. Now into Week 2, Steven’s journey has not been without its struggles, but his determination remains unshaken.

Steven, who is travelling the route in his electric wheelchair, started the week by completing 125 miles and delivering over 30 plaques. However, overheated motors halted his progress briefly, but with the help of some kind strangers and Cornwall Mobility Centre, Steven was back on the road, this time with new motors fitted to handle the challenge better.

Journey Along the Tamar

Week 2 began with a scenic trip from Cotehele House to Launceston Castle, followed by a venture along the Hartland Heritage Coast, even sneaking in a visit to GCHQ, before finishing the day at Bude Sea Pool. However, the weather had other plans. Heavy rain and bitter winds forced Steven to cut his Day 8 journey short at Boscastle, as waterlogged electronics made it unsafe to continue.

Two days later, with drier conditions and new shock absorbers in place, Steven was back on track. His next leg took him from Port Isaac to The Pig Hotel at Harlyn Bay, passing through Rock, Wadebridge, and Padstow. Along the way, he enjoyed a stop at Paul Ainsworth’s establishments, The Mariners and Caffe Rojano, where a pizza gave him some much-needed energy.

Support Along the Way

Steven’s journey hasn’t gone unnoticed. Karen and Sherrelle from the Air Ambulance team have been a constant source of support, along with members of Coodes Solicitors, who have been popping up along the route to cheer him on. In a special moment, Cornwall Air Ambulance CEO Tim Bunting made a surprise appearance to personally thank Steven for his efforts.

Public support has been overwhelming, with people honking their car horns, waving, and shouting words of encouragement. Steven estimates over £500 has been raised in cash donations just from the public’s roadside generosity.

Surprises and Milestones

By the end of Week 2, Steven had travelled close to the halfway point. He journeyed through Perranporth, Portreath, and Godrevy before stopping to admire two resting seals at Hell’s Mouth.

Day 12 saw Steven continue his journey along the North Coast, starting at Lelant and ending at Land’s End. Along the way, he passed Carbis Bay Hotel, St Ives, and Bottallack Mine. With a total of 293.2 miles covered so far, Steven has raised £5,000 towards his £20,000 fundraising goal.

How to Follow Steven’s Progress

You can follow Steven’s progress via a live tracker, released daily at 10:15am: Live Tracker. To support Steven’s fundraising efforts, donations can be made through his JustGiving page: Donate Here.

For more updates on his journey, follow him on social media:

• Facebook: The Cornwall 500
• Instagram: TheCornwall500
• LinkedIn: The Cornwall 500 CIC

As Steven heads into the next phase of his challenge, his resilience and positive spirit continue to inspire those following his journey. Will he reach his £20,000 target? Stay tuned!