Test-run on specialised wheelchair cancelled
A planned test-run on a specialised wheelchair which, it is hoped, will take a Kintyre man to the summit of Scotland’s highest mountain, has been cancelled.
David MacPherson junior, 44, from the Moy, had planned to try out the Joelette wheelchair – in which he hopes to conquer Ben Nevis next year – at an event tomorrow (Saturday).
The brakes have had to be put on the plan, however, as the charity which designed the chair, JAPES: Joelette And People Experiences, is not able to travel to Campbeltown because of the Covid-19 pandemic.
The Joelette was designed to help people with mobility issues, like David, who survived a life-changing car accident more than 20 years ago, to take part in mass participation running events and is now used for conquering mountains too.
David is still hoping to be the first person to reach the top of Ben Nevis in a Joelette wheelchair, as he prepares to take on the challenge in June 2021.
He will be joined by his dad, David senior, as well as volunteers from JAPES, who will help power the wheelchair, and Lochaber Mountain Rescue team.
As well as sponsorship, organisers are appealing to anyone fit and able enough, or willing to put in the necessary training before the event, to join them on the climb.
The money the challenge raises will be given to local key workers, including hospital staff and carers, to reward their hard work throughout the coronavirus pandemic, with a portion also being donated to Lochaber Mountain Rescue.
A special bank account has been set up to allow people to donate money directly to the challenge.
The account name is Ben Nevis Challenge, the sort code is 82-61-20 and the account number is 40025200.
Email ben-nevis-challenge@outlook.com or telephone 07873 333184 for further information.