Cornwall amputee and Blesma Trustee Stuart Croxford is embarking on a 2000km endurance cycle, covering the length of the UK, to raise funds for Blesma.

The 2000km charity cycle will take Stu from Land’s End to John o’Groats, through 21 counties of England, Wales and Scotland.

Starting on May 9^th, Stuart will cycle up to 20 hours per days through Truro, Exmoor National Park, Quantock Hills, Bristol, Brecon Beacons National Park, Manchester, Yorkshire Dales, Stirling and Ben Lawers National Nature Reserve.

A former Captain of the Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment, Stu is no stranger to using his resilience to push the limits of life and endurance, having completed a full Ironman, the London Marathon and numerous 100-mile cycling challenges since losing his leg in 2014.

“Riding for this distance and duration with little rest would push an able-bodied rider to their extreme both physically and mentally. As an amputee this will add extra stress and factors I will need to think about and overcome daily. I’ve never put this amount of stress through my residual limb and prosthetic so will be riding into the unknown,” Stuart said.

“To complete this challenge, I’ll have to rely hugely on my own resilience to pull myself through some very challenging times. My motivation will come from the knowledge that funds will be raised for a fantastic charity.”

“Since losing my leg in 2014, I have just wanted to get on and live an independent and fulfilling life, even with the struggle of life as an amputee. That reflects very well with what Blesma’s ethos is and how it supports its Members.”

Inspired by Stuart’s story, electric vehicle company AVA developed an electric defender in his honour - the Croxford Defender. Designed to take on the toughest of terrains, the vehicle will serve as Stuart’s support vehicle during the challenge. The vehicle itself was built in cooperation with Stuart, with bespoke interiors reflecting his life. 

“The AVA Croxford Defender celebrates Stuart’s remarkable story of resilience and positivity. The vehicle is AVA’s tribute to Stuart’s incredible courage and determination in the face of adversity,” said AVA founder Norman Crowley.

Stuart hopes the cycle will raise £50,000 for the charity. You can learn more about the Croxford defender here.