By Victoria Brenan

Last updated at 14:14, Thursday, 04 October 2012

A climber who fell 40 metres off a mountain and broke nearly every bone in one side of his body is embarking on a 200-mile bike ride to thank rescuers who saved his life.

Joe Beaumont

Thirty-four-year-old Joe Beaumont is still unable to walk without “considerable” pain after plunging off Eskdale 19 months ago, causing extreme concussion, nerve damage and multiple broken bones.

He will complete this weekend’s trek to raise money for Wasdale Mountain Rescue team and raise awareness of the work done by them, and RAF Boulmer and staff at the West Cumberland Hospital.

Mr Beaumont said he was still suffering with a broken leg which hasn’t healed properly so he will complete Saturday’s challenge on a recumbent trike. He can’t use a standard bike as he cannot hold the handlebars or put pressure on his legs.

His challenge will take eight days and see him calling at various towns along the way, including Alston, Langwathby and Keswick, before finishing at Wasdale Head on October 13.

“My life has been completely turned upside down by last year’s climbing accident,” he said.

“I’m so grateful to so many people including surgeons and specialists who put me back together, and to my family and friends who’ve supported me through my difficult and ongoing recovery.”

He described his convalescence as “frustrating” and said he imagined doing some form of personal challenge.

“It was only after a visit to Boulmer that I was inspired with the idea of travelling from east to west coast,” Mr Beaumont, from Windermere, added.

“I want the challenge to not only bring awareness of the great work my rescuers do but also to raise money for the Wasdale Mountain Rescue team, because as a charity, they need approximately £30,000 per year to ensure they can always be there in times of people’s need.”

First published at 11:26, Thursday, 04 October 2012
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk