World Record Attempt in a Power Wheelchair Lands End to John O'Groats

7 Days to Go

2009-07-10T10:26:00.001-07:00

10 July 2009

7 Day to go

With only 7 days to go we have been busy putting the teams information packs together and finalizing our route and accommodation paperwork.

In the teams information pack we have such information as letter from RBL giving them permission to collect for the RBL. Where they will be staying and a job description.

On Monday, Alex will be arriving here. He will be kitted up and fitted to my somewhat bent body. I lean to the right.

Even though I want to do this challenge in one Alex, I am been given a spare. HC do not want my world record attempt to end because Alex did not make it. Thank you HC.

With now only 7 days to go, it is now a matter of putting everything together. Fill packing boxes. Make sure that I have all my personal equipment. Cross all the right X’s.

This weekend I go out with Philip – my cyclist - on a training run, for the second time. We went out yesterday for the first time covering 22 ks. This first training run was on footpaths, main A roads and minor A road. I loved every moment of the time we spent.

FairTrades Big Lunch Day

2009-07-08T07:28:00.000-07:00

8th July 09

Big Lunch Day

While i am on my E2E i am going to try and get involved in the FairTrade Lunch Day. I shall be inviting anyone who wants to join us to share our evening meal and to sample FairTrade coffee and tea. I will report back.

This is FTs press release...

When Good Neighbours Become Good Friends

Mighty oaks from little acorns grow. A groundswell of goodwill is spreading across the land as friends and neighbours come together for a common (and gloriously uncommon) purpose. With just under two months to go until The Big Lunch on 19 July, events up and down the country are starting to take shape. T he turn out on the day is currently estimated at around half a million, but as more and more people sign up to take part, that figure continues to grow.

The Big Lunch, the ambitious idea from the Eden Project, in partnership with MasterCard, and supported by EDF Energy and the Royal Mail Group, aims to bring together as many of the 61 million people in the UK to simultaneously eat lunch with their neighbours and put a big smile on people’s faces.

Whether it’s their prize-winning courgettes, secret-recipe homebrew or playing a mean set of spoons, finding out what our neighbours are made of is one of The Big Lunch’s great joys; forging firm friendships another. There are as many ways to get involved as there are people to turn up. From home-made art, cakes or beer, to garage bands, mini-olympiads and open mics, or simply showing up and having a great time with the people on your street, the possibilities are endless.

So far, over 6.900 lunches have been set up across the country, including:
· a 5,000-strong Big Lunch in Toxteth, Liverpool, hosted by Arts in Regeneration, which will see 5 streets transformed into an open-air gallery promenade with cultural food, film, football, art, dancing, choirs and buskers
· Garstang, the world’s first ever Fairtrade town twinned with the Ghanaian town, New Koforidua, and now twinning their Big Lunch too
· Sikh gurdwaras in London and Bradford will be sharing a magnificent curry for The Big Lunch through the institution of ‘langar’ - people from different religious and social groups cooking and eating together

Paul Twivy, CEO of The Big Lunch, commented: “Let’s all express our talents, get over our embarrassment, shake hands and work with our neighbours and realise that the neighbourhood where we live is the biggest untapped source of happiness we possess.”
Eden Project Chief Executive, Tim Smit, commented: “Imagine a summer's day on which millions of us, throughout the UK, sit down to have lunch together with our neighbours: in the middle of our streets, around our tower blocks and on every patch of common ground. The food, entertainment, music and decorations we will have grown, cooked, or created ourselves. This will be a day to break bread with our neighbours, to put a smile on Britain's face.”

The Big Lunch takes place on Sunday July 19, 2009. Looking for inspiration? Check out Easy Ways to Serve The Big Lunch, our multi-purpose high-energy manual packed with wild ideas and straight up facts (available for £2 from the website, Waterstone's, WH Smith, B&Q, Amazon - proceeds go towards the Eden Trust), plus our spread-the-word leaflets that will start a Big Lunch buzz in your neighbourhood. Visit www.thebiglunch.com for more information.

Ends
For Further Information please contact:
Rhona Hurcombe
07976 847594
rhona@thebiglunch.com

My FairTrade Day

2009-07-07T03:50:00.000-07:00

7th July 09

My FairTrade day

As you must all now be fully aware, on this world record challenge i will be supporting FairTrade. After going on the FairTade web site i have discovered that on Sunday 19th July 09 they are holding a FairTrade lunch day. This world record attempt will be fully supporting this lunch and you can read this blog to see how. For more details abou the day click on to this link. http://www.fairtrade.org.uk/get_involved/news_events_and_urgent_actions/the_big_fairtrade_lunch.aspx

I am also looking at having the 19th July 09 as a fundraising day for FairTrade. I will consult with my friends at the RBL first.

Alex arrives today.. I will report back later

"Alex Becomes..."

2009-07-06T00:21:00.000-07:00

06 July 2009

Alex becomes and Honouree Member of The Lands End to John O’Groats Association

I have just heard from Don of the LEJOG Association , that in view of the fact that Alex is going for a world record, he is to be made a Honouree Member of the Association. What greater accolade than that, except of course holding, a “Power Chair World Record”

As soon as I have got a few training miles in, I will report back to you.

Only 12 days 6 hrs to the off gun……

Official Paperwork

2009-07-03T10:11:00.000-07:00

3rd July 09

The official paperwork.

In my email box today was the official paperwork from the Guinness Book of Records. This paperwork tells us the rules and regulation that the GBR lay down for my E2E to be recognized as a world record. The list is long and i have a lot of paperwork to fill in, notes to take, pictures to take and proof to obtain that i am where i say i am at the time i say i am. You get the message.

What this paperwork say, and this is very important to all E2E ers, that the E2E is now back on the books as a recognised world record. This means a lot to us all, and no more than the Lands End to John O'Groats Association who have world endlessly to have the E2E reinstated. Thanks Jack.

Tomorrow i do the final, if there is such a statement as final buying when preparing for the E2E, simple things like chopping boards, bread knife and two Orange mobile phones.

Now back to cheering for Murrey at Wimbledon...

Press Box

2009-07-03T00:14:00.000-07:00

3rd July 09

Press Box

Only 16 days and 6 hrs to the startin gun!

Please can you pass this link on to who, and where ever you can.

Thank you

Hello Mary Laver,Thank you for submitting your press release to PressBox. PressBox is a valued source of information for journalists and is used by thousands of media relations professionals each week. Your release has been validated. To help maximise exposure please also remember to link directly to your press release from your website. You can find your release here :

http://www.pressbox.co.uk/detailed/Sports/World_Record_Attempt_in_a_Alex_Power_Chair_335599.html

To help continue supporting Pressbox we also appreciate if you visit some of our advertisers.

We Are Now Awaiting "Alex"

2009-06-30T01:54:00.000-07:00

39th June 09

We are now waiting for our star 'Alex'

With only 18 days to go to the off, the stage is now awaiting for "Handicare 'Alex'."

So far we now in place, most of the funds to attempt this once in mine and i dare says, Alex's life time. We have the full team. the vehicles are booked and paid for. The CTC route is now maped and written up for Philip my cyclist. We have tons of camping gear. A Fairtrade food hamper. Insurance, very important.. The list is endless. All we now is Alex. When he arrives you will be the second one to know.

Keep watching this space...

My Chosen Charity

2009-06-29T11:49:00.000-07:00

29th June 09

My chosen charity

Just a small reminder to you all that this world record attempt is to raise money for my chosen charity The Royal British Legion.

You can go to my fundraising page by clicking on http://www.bmycharity.com/V2/e2epowerchairchallenge

Thank you

Sleeping On My Streacher

2009-06-29T00:30:00.000-07:00

29th July 09

Sleeping on my stretcher

It is very important that my team and I, get a good nights sleep. To this end i am supplying good quality blow up beds. In my case, i am looking into using a stretcher.

Last night i started to find the best combinations of mattress to fit the stretcher. Last night proved to be a disaster. Tonight i try again

I my well be looking at taking a fold up bed with a memory mattress and just use my stretcher for my person care. Not all campsites and YHA's have shower facilities for disabled people.

While we are talking about campsites, can i say a big and very sincere thank you to, for donating my board for the night of the 27th July 09.

Their details

Robert and Julie Broad
Emral Gardens Caravan ParkHolly

BushBangor-on-Dee

WrexhamLL13 0BG
Tel: (01948) 770401
Mobile: (07774) 275266

e-mail: enquiries@emralgardens.com
www.emralgardens.co.uk

Dealing With My Nerves

2009-06-29T00:16:00.000-07:00

29th June 09

Dealing with my nerves

The best way i am finding of dealing with my nerves, i was bad again this morning, is to get onto my computer and work. There are lots to do.

One place i find help and is also a very good read, comes from my friends on the Cycling Touring Club (CTC) forum. They are a great bunch of Guys and Girls and always willing to give advice and encouragement..

This morning i have just been on the forum and the time is only 0820, but there is lots to read and there are many posts about the E2E on the forum.

This i have just read and found it very encouraging as it is about my chosen route The CTC YHA route. I hope i am not breaking any rules by coping and pasting this

Quote "A friend and I just did the ctc route (we did the hostel route but camped instead).I would have to say it was excellent! However, it was a huge gale of a headwind the day we were supposed to cross Dartmoor so we went around to Oakhampton and took the old A30. Good roads away from the majority of traffic.Definitely worth a quick look, may be not the fastest or most direct, but mostly very quiet empty roads " unquote.

To anyone doing the E2E i would very highly recommend that you join the CTC you will find them a great orgainsation to be in. I am going to ask if they will adaopt me as i am not cycling the E2E but a power chair user but I think you may will have worked that one out by now

Please Remember Me In Your Prays

2009-06-28T09:18:00.000-07:00

28th June 09

Please remember me in your prays

I am asking everyone, regardless of their faith, to please remember me in their prays. If you belong to a church, pray group, pray chain, please include me and my team in your prays.

I cannot do this on my own and i know that with your prays and Jehovah's help we will become a World Record team.

God Bless

Love

Mary

Physically Feeling Sick

2009-06-27T01:42:00.000-07:00

27 June 2009

Physically feel sick

Photograph of last years attempt

With only 3 weeks to the off I am now feeling physical sick and have been sick once. As I write this entry, my tum is churning away. I never had a baby but if this is what morning sickness is all about, I can feel empathy with all you moms.

Why am I feeling this nervous I keep asking myself!

For me to get from one end of the country. Lands End to the other end, John O’Groats, due to the extent of my disability, takes many people. There is my team of 7 in all. Without just one of them, this World Record Challenge could collapse like a pack of cards. Not trying to put pressure on you guys!

Then we have Handicare who are giving me Alex and either Ales or my Alber Adventure will be up for sale to offset the costs, some £6000, this challenge is costing £1000 give or take a few £’s.

We then have the RBL Poppy Appeal. They are supporting me where and when they can. They will be at the start with the RBL Standard and Standard Bearer. If you would like to make a donation then please go to my Bmycharity link on the left.

I am promoting Fairtrade and they have been a great help. My local FT rep gave me a FT hamper, thank for that.

Euro cars are providing my second vehicle with a very good discount.

Petal Black Clothing are giving a donation to my expenses and providing some tee shirts.

Jack Adams along with Don Dyer of the Lands End John O’Groats Association has worked to get The Guinness Book of Records to recognise this challenge as a World Record. See link to the left.

Back here at home, my friends and carers are working very hard to make sure that this challenge happens. Emmanuelle is doing all the paperwork. Addie is working on the food side, Eileen is making sure I have everything I need, and Eileen has worked with me for 17 years and was very much involved in my last attempt. Margaret is dealing with the bank and arranging for wages to be paid while I am away. Jacky, new to my team, is out doing 26 ks with me so I can do some serious training; Karen is getting my cloths altered. All of this is on top of feeding, watering and toileting me and doing my sleepovers.

Three of my team, Emmanuelle, Addie and Margaret are taking turns on the actual challenge by doing a week, encase of Emmanuelle, two weeks, out on the road with me. What can I says guys, but thank you.

Without all of the above and the massive fundraising efforts of a lady who likes to be in the background, Jenny Robson and a guy call Gary, some and not so small donations from friends and strangers in Tyne & Wear, then the funds for this challenge would not be in place. With the knock on effect that this challenge will not take place.

When I think off all of the above, then I remember I have forgotten the one person who will be out there on the road with me, Philip my cyclist, then no wonder I have morning and day sickness. Just opening my side gate has to be done by me.

The Campsite and Youth Hostel owners I have spoken to in booking our overnights stay, have been just great to speak to and making sure at this busy time of the year, ‘that we have a place to hang my hat’ you have the list here on the blog.

Put all this together and a once in a lifetime chance of becoming at the age of 62 years a World Record Holder.. Wow. Can life get any better?

To those of you who read my blog, and there are a few of you, you will know that I have a very strong faith. Would you please put me and this challenge onto your pray list and get the word out to other pray groups. Thank you and God Bless.

While my team and I are out on the road, we would love to hear from you and see you supporting us along the route, you can ring me personally and time on Mobile 07975649162. I would love to hear from you.

Well there you have today’s blog entry. Hope it is not too long but it has helped my tum if only for a short time

3 weeks and 4 hours to go!

Now The Nerves Are Kicking In!

2009-06-26T08:45:00.000-07:00

26 June 2009

Rescue Remedy to the rescue

Now the nerves are kicking in.

With still three weeks to off, my training is going well but the verves are now kicking in. This is something I have never experienced before. My tummy that is taking the blunt of my nerves. Already this week I have been sick twice and had bad heartburn once.

If anyone has any advice to pass on then I am only too pleased to read, and may, act

Today I was out fundraising towards my expenses and raised £150. Not bad. This evening I am off to a Forces Night, I am ex-WRAF and hope to get up on the floor in my Alber Power Chair and do some jig a budding. I just love it.

See you in my next entry

World Record Attempt

2009-06-25T09:25:00.001-07:00

25th June

World Record Attempt

A World Record Attempt in a Power Chair
LEJOG 18th July/12th August 09

The Guinness Book of Records TM http://www.guinnessworldrecords/ have now agreed to recognise “The Lands End to John O’Groats” challenge as a “World Record” and that The Lands End to John O’Groats Association are the official judicator of the LEJOG Challenge. http://www.landsend-johnogroats-assoc.com/

Mary Laver (62) is now going to take on the challenge under the rules of the “Guinness Book of Records TM,” of driving her Handicare “Alex” Power Chair from Lands End to John O’Groats between 18th July/12th August 09

Mary, who is severely disabled with Rheumatoid Arthritis, is totally human and wheelchair dependent will be with a team of seven, made up of two drivers, two vehicles, four carers, one cyclist... They plan to stay in campsites and Youth Hostels on this epic journey.

Mary says, “While this is my World Record attempt, I also consider it is also a team event. We will cross the starting line as a team and cross the finishing line as a team.” She also goes onto say. “This will be my second attempt but this time, thanks to friends and strangers in ‘Tyne & Wear and the support of my team;’ we will go for that World Record in their name.

Mary knows that the safety and the safety of others is a prime importance, and will if deemed necessary, Mary will get into her van to pass any danger knowing that by doing so her World Record attempt is finished.

Mary hopes the challenge will raise awareness of the work her chosen charity “The Royal British Legion and Poppy Appeal” and raise them lots of cash. Her target is £8000

Mary is also very passionate about the work of ‘Fairtrade’ and ‘Organic Food’, so will be promoting their work on this World Record attempt..

The team will be feed, where possible, on Organic and Faitrade produce.

Mary says’ “The World Record is there for me to take, all I have to do take it. Easy to say, very hard to do!”

For more details of the challenge, please go to
http://powerwheelchaire2e.blogspot.com/

To support her chosen charity please go to
https://www.bmycharity.com/V2/e2epowerchairchallenge
To contact Mary on her mobile, she would love to hear from you.
07975649162

Guiness Book of Records

2009-06-24T00:53:00.000-07:00

24th July 09

0845 email from Jack Adams

It is offical, this is a world record attempt in the Lands End to John O'Groats in a power chair, in this case "Alex" from Handicare. Thank you all for making this possible Mary

Hi Mary
I can confirm that subject to you finishing your end to end journey successfully you will be recommended by the LEJOG Association to the GWR for world record status, on behalf of the LEJOG Association I wish you well with your adventure. After meeting you and conversing via email I can think of no other person that deserves success more than you.

Kind Regards

Jack

Everything Is In Place

2009-06-20T11:38:00.000-07:00

20 June 2009

Everything is in place

It is now 1915 and I am playing catch up to tell you what has been happening.

Firstly, I can now say that this challenge is fully equipped with all its camping gear and all but three overnight stops are in place. My Fairtrade donated hamper has arrived, thank you for that. The contents have now been packed into to 85 lit plastic boxes, of which we have nine and are now slowly been packed with various items the boxes are numbered to identifie the tasks the contents will perform. 1. Our cooker 2. Our cooking stoves, BBQ, lighters, gas cylinders in another. 3. Fairtrade dry rations take up three. 4. Kitchen stuff takes up one, ect. I think you get the picture.

For sleeping on, I have bought good quality inflatable single beds.Everyone has been asked to bring their own sleeping bag. I have even thought of the tags to identify which belongs to whom.

For safe storage of food, we have cool bags. Two are electric and the other two are just cold bags. We are been very careful with our food hygiene, making sure that the meat and chicken keep away from each other and other foods. We shall be following health and hygiene rules to the last letter when it comes to preparing our food.

On Wednesday, we have our first team meeting. My local park has given us permission to put up our tents and to use this time as team building. We shall also try out using the hoist on the rubber mat that we have.

The pups are booked into kennels; the van is booked and paid for. Today I became a paid up member of the Lands End to John O’Groats Association http://www.landsend-johnogroats-assoc.com/ who are monitoring my challenge, see left-hand panel for their web site. All that now remains is to pull it all together and pack the vans.

This now means that for the next 4 weeks, well 3 weeks and 6 days, I am going to get as much training in as I can using my Alber Adventure. The most I can do is 20 miles per day as this is about the length of Albers batteries. I am hoping to have ‘Alex’ in two weeks time and then he and I can burn some real rubber together.

In the mean time, now that thanks to the support I have been getting from local people, I also have to fit in some fundraising for my chosen charity, ‘The Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal,’ so please will you now move over to my Bmycharity link and sponsor me.

Thank you.

Booking Our Campsites

2009-06-18T00:13:00.000-07:00

18th June 09

Booking our campsites

INDEX FOR ACCOMMODATION

FIRST WEEK

Day 0

Friday 17th July/18th July
Arrive Penzance
Bone Valley Caravan Park
Tel: 01736 360313
Deposit paid
Total cost £150 for 2 nights
www.caravancampingsites.co.uk/cornwall/bonevalley.htm

Day 1

Saturday 18th July
Lands End to Penzance
Bone Valley Caravan Park
See above

Day 2

Sunday 19th July
Penzance to Treyarnon
Treyarnon Caravan and Camping Park
Treyarnon Bay,
Padstow,
Cornwall.
PL28 8PN
Tel 01841 520681
http://www.carnevasholidaypark.com/amenities.html
To pay. Booked

Day 3

Monday 20th July
Treyarnon to Bridestowe
Okehampton (p191-192)
Ms & Mr Sargent
Bundu Camping & Caravan Park
EX20 4HT
Tel: 01837 861611
Confirmed pay by cash £40
email frances@bunduy.plus.com
www.bundu.co.uk/

Day 4

Tuesday 21st July
Bridestow to Cullompton
Mr Wellard
Forest Glad Caravan & Camping Park
EX12 2DT
Tel: 01404841381
www.forest-glade.co.uk/

Donated Thank you Mr & Mrs Wellard

Day 5

Wednesday 22nd July
Cullompton to Street
Isle of Avalon campsite
Godney Rd
Glastonbury
Somerset
BA6 9AF

Tel 01458 833618
Cost £60 To pay. Booked
http://www.ukcampsite.co.uk/sites/reviews.asp?revid=2109

Day 6

Thursday 23rd July
Wells to Chepstow
YHA
St. Briavels (11miles)LydneyGloucestershire GL15 6RG
Tel 01594530272
Booked and paid £150
http://www.yha.org.uk/find-accommodation/heart-of-england/hostels/St-Briavels/index.aspx
Can take both road scenic and high.

Day 7/Day 8

Friday 24th July / Saturday 25th July
Chepstow to Burley Gate
“Change over”
The Millpond Camping & Caravanning Park (6 miles)
HEREFORDSHIRE
HR1 4JA
TEL 01432 890243

Deposit £28.60
http://www.millpond.co.uk/

SECOND WEEK

Day 9

Sunday 26th July
Burley Gate to Bridges
The Green Caravan Park (3 miles)WentnorBishop's CastleShropshireSY9 5EF

Tel 01588 650 605

Deposit £10
http://www.greencaravanpark.co.uk/

Day 10

Monday 27th July
Bridges to Holt (Wrexham)
Robert and Julie Broad
Emral Gardens Caravan ParkHolly BushBangor-on-DeeWrexhamLL13 0BG
Tel: (01948) 770401
Mobile: (07774) 275266

e-mail: enquiries@emralgardens.com
www.emralgardens.co.uk/

Day 11

Tuesday 28th July
Holt to Leigh

Day 12

Wednesday 29th July
Leigh to Slaidburn
Gallaber Park ( 9 miles )
Long Preston,
Skipton,
North Yorkshire.
BD23 4QFtel. 01729 851397

Booked to pay £18 per pitch
E-mail: info@gallaberpark.com
Web: www.gallaberpark.com

Day 13

Thursday 30th July
Slaidburn to Orton
None so far

Day 14/15

Friday 31st July/Saturday 1st August
Orton to Gretna
Hoddom Castle Caravan Park (14miles)
Hoddom
Lockabie
DG11 1AS
Tel 01576 300 251

Booked Paid £140 paid in full
http://www.hoddomcastle.co.uk/index.html
Change over

THIRD WEEK

Day 16

Sunday 2nd August
Gretna to Elvanfoot
Abington (7 miles)
Mrs Stirling
Mount View Caravan Park
ML12 6RW
Tel: 01864 502808
Email: info@mountviewcaravanpark.co.uk
www.mountviewcaravanpark.co.uk/
Booked in

Day 17
Monday 3rd August
Elvanfoot to Airdrie
Craigendmuir Park Business CentreSteppsGlasgowG33 6AFTel : 0141 779 4159Email : info@craigendmuir.co.uk Web : www.craigendmuir.co.uk/
Deposit

Day 18

Tuesday 4th August
Airdrie to Ardchullarie More
Mr Richards Strathyre, Near Callander, Perthshire
FK18 8NJ
Tel 01877 384285
www.immervoulin.com
Email: immervoulin@freenet.co.uk

Donated Thank you

Day 19
Wednesday 5th August
Ardchullaire More to Archallader
YHA Crianlarich (12 miles)Perthshire
FK20 8QN
Phone: 01838 300 260E-mail: crianlarich@syha.org.uk
Booked by email
http://www.hihostels.com/dba/hostels-Crianlarich-YHA-050019.en.htm

Day 20
Thursday 6th August
Archallader to Spean Bridge
Gail & Andy Markham (4 miles)Bunroy ParkRoy BridgeInverness-shirePH31 4AG

Tel 01397 712332
http://www.bunroy.co.uk/
Booked Paid

Day 21/Day 22

Friday 7th August / Saturday 8th August
Spean Bridge to Drumnadrochit
Cannich Caravan & Camping Park(12miles)CannichStrathglassInverness-shireIV4 7LN

Tel 01456 415364

Booked To pay
http://www.btinternet.com/~highlandcamping/contact.html

FOURTH WEEK

Day 23

Sunday 9th August
Drumnadrochit to Bonar Bridge
Susannah
Dornoch Firth Caravan Park (13 miles)Meikle Ferry SouthTainIV19 1JX01862 892292 enquiries@dornochfirth.co.uk www.dornochfirth.co.uk
To pay £40

Day 24

Monday 10th August
Bonar Bridge to Tongue
SYHA Tongue,
By Lairg,
Sutherland,
IV27 4XH
Tel 01847 611789
http://www.syha.org.uk/hostels/highlands/tongue.aspx
Booked

Day 25

Tuesday 11th August
Tongue to Isauld
No accommodation so far

Day 26

Wednesday 12th August
Isauld to John O'Groats
John O’Groats caravan
Mr Steven
Tel: 01955 611329
Email: info@johnogrotscampsite.co.uk
www.visitjohnogroats.com/johnogroatscampsite.co.uk/

2009-06-17T03:32:00.001-07:00

17 June 2009

Solving problems

On this challenge, as with any other challenge, there are many problems we have to solve.

One problem we have to solve in my case is lifting me safely. This will be done by using a portable mobile lift.

Mobile lifts are designed to use indoors, none has come up with one to use outside. Why I do not know, as more and more disabled people are venturing out and using our campsites, me being one of them.

Getting back to hoisting.
Problem one is hoisting me on grass. Not easy, we have tried it. The solution has to be in the form of a firm base. Having looked at some, we have opted for a very thick rubber square, putting the hoist on it and moving my bed, or chair to the hoist. That problem that problem solved

Next problem, what happens if it is raining!
While we are out on the road, I will have to be taken out of Alex while he is having a battery change and general check over, and be put onto my stretcher or into my manual wheelchair. No problem in care parks and roadside parking areas as they have a hard surface. The problem is, ‘what happens if it is raining?’ ‘How to I keep the hoist dry?’ They are not designed for getting wet, mine is not, I have checked with the manufacture Solution a large winding up garden parasail, -see photograph. - over the hoist. To keep the handset/battery dry, we will be wrapped in Clingfilm

I hope we never have to put this to the test but it is one of the many things we have to be prepared for. Watch this space.

The Guiness Book of Records

2009-06-17T00:21:00.000-07:00

17 June 2009

The Guinness Book of Records

To bring you up to date as regards my application to the Guinnes I am appealing against this dission as driving a power chair is totally different to driving a power scooter. In addition, there is a big difference between 1600 miles and 1000 miles. I will let you know their verdict

15th June 2009
Book of Records.
Claim ID: 257257

Mrs Laver,

Thank you for your enquiry regarding your intention to attempt the record for '!000 miles in a power chair'. Your proposal is very similar to an existing record that we monitor and so we suggest you attempt this instead: 'Longest journey on an electric mobility vehicle (scooter)'.

The current record (current as at the date of this letter) is:John Duckworth (UK) travelled 2,662.8 km (1654.6 miles) around mainland UK on a Horizon Mayan electric mobility scooter between 20 June 2004 and 27 July 2004, finishing in Hincaster, Cumbria, UK.

You may wish to check with us again closer to submitting your full claim to be sure that a new record has not been set in the interim.

Please note that any current record information is provided to you to the best of Guinness World Records knowledge and belief as at the date of this letter and is based on the record information currently logged on the Guinness World Records database. This current record may change at any time due to a new record being approved. You are responsible for keeping yourself up to date with any new records as Guinness World Records will not inform you of any change to the current record.

We have attached specific Guidelines for this record category which detail the requirements you must follow to make your record attempt. You should ensure that all those participating and those witnessing the attempt are aware of the contents of these Guidelines. We would also draw your attention to the specific authentication we require when you come to make your claim for this particular category. This is in addition to the general authentication requirements as detailed in the Record Breakers Pack also included with this email.

These Guidelines will be appropriate for achieving a Guinness World Record as at the date of this letter. However, please be aware that as and when required, the Guidelines may be updated by us from time to time and without further notice to you.

Using the Guinness World Records T or logo is a great way to help promote your attempt. If you are interested in using our logo and trademarks during your record event, please log in the website, select the appropriate claim number and click on 'Use our logo'.

Once the record has been attempted and you have compiled your claim and completed the Agreement Regarding Supporting Materials which you will find in the attachment, all the information should be sent to us here at:

GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS LIMITED 3rd Floor184-192 Drummond StreetLondon NW1 3HPUNITED KINGDOM.

Please ensure that your Claim ID (above) is clearly marked on your package and all documentation.

Alex & Me

2009-06-13T13:34:00.000-07:00

12 June 2009

“Alex and Me”

At the heart of all this challenge is a guy called “Alex” you can visit his web site http://www.handicare.co.uk/handicare/pages/newspage____158284.aspx?epslanguage=ENhe

Alex is a normal sort of guy, he has the usual four wheels, his heart in his hand control, and I can snuggle up to him on his lap. He would like to do nothing more than to take me out for a nice ride in the country.

Alex and I have only met a couple of times, the first being on a blind date at Newcastle International Airport. I would not say it was love at first sight, I am not that sort of girl, I need a bit of time to get to know a guy, you know the sort of thing!

I well remember the first time I saw Alex; he was driving towards me at slow, and gentle speed with his friend called Mechanic. I was in my Alber Adventure, a trusted and tried friend. We said "Hi" and as we were there for a meeting, he went into the room with us. Not together I must add. Alex just sat quietly in the corner of the room

As our meeting was ending, it was time for Alex and me to get to know each other more intimately. It was then that I was hoisted onto Alex’s lap. Wow, that was a good feeling. I could feel his comfortable seat, a girls dream. His friend Mechanic, made a few adjustments to his wonderful armrests and made sure that my legs fitted securely onto his feet rests. “Enough” I said we want to be alone to get to know each other a bit more. The door was opened and Alex and I drove slowly at first, but then started to burn some rubber and together we drove into the airport, the others trying, but failing to keep up.

Alex and I were not together for very long on this first date. We did a few twirls on the open floor, had a few photos taken and ventured outside for a few moments to be alone having to return to the group for a sad parting. Alas Handicare, they made Alex, wanted to take him home and talk to him as man-to-man about him driving me all the way from Lands End to John O’Groats. – This is what the meeting was all about and they wanted Alex to be there as they planned that he might like to be the chosen power chair for the challenge. - They were to be frank with him, this was no romantic drive in the park or sitting in the back row of the cinema, no, this was the big adventure. Did he want to do it? The verdict I was to get at the NIDEX Show in Birmingham.

When I got to the NIDEX Show, I was a bit apprenticed. Was Alex going to do the End 2 End with me? Was he going to let me sit on his lap through the sun and rain? Was he going to be up to doing 40 miles a day and 1000 miles in all? Would he beable to do this when both of us wanted to call it a day knowing we had to carry on. Could he cope with the publicity, been in the lime light afterwards.

All these questions raised through my head as the train pulled in to Birmingham International.

With my heart raising, I made my way in my DHSS wheelchair, - Alber Adventure did not want to meet up with his rival again, so flatly refused to go with me, understandable -, to Handicare stand. Alex was there waiting for me. We were taken to a stand that sold hoists so I could be hoisted once again into Alex lap. Nothing had change. We still wanted to be together.

I had to ask Alex, “do you still want to take me all the way from one end of England to the other?” His answer was yes he did. If he had been able to do so, my disability stopped me, I would have hugged him there, right in front of thousands of people. I am just glad that Alber was not there. He would have turned on his wheels.

After spending, the day with Alex visiting various stands, drinking loads of coffee, we had to say good by, but this time knowing we will meet up again soon.

Yesterday I had an email from Eddie at Handicare who is a good friend of Alex. He told me that Alex is getting ready for our big day. Alex want to be at his best fitness, so is making sure that all his parts are in top shape and his new long distance batteries do not affect his performance on the road. Thanks Alex for that thought.

Alex and I will be meeting up again at the beginning of July to do some training runs. After the E2E we have been invited, with Eddie of Handicare, - remember they bought us together - and a couple of friends, to the House of Commons for lunch and a tour. What accolade is that?

Keep reading this blog to see how Alex and I fair in our new relationship and if at the end of the E2E our relationship lasts and my Alber decides there is not enough room in my heart, and my house, for two guys and leaves me.

Who will win my heart Alex or Alber? Only time will tell.

Copywrite Mary Laver

My Faith

2009-06-11T00:15:00.000-07:00

11th July 09

My Faith.

My faith is very real to me and has helped me through many events in my life, the worst been my marriage break up and the death of my mom and dad.

During all the hours, the ups and downs of organising this challenge, the disappointments, getting to the point where i was going to have to call it off, there is one place i go to for guidence and strenght, the Groto at Lourdes. There I leave a pray. You might like to pay the Groto a visit, they have a live Web Cam http://www.lourdes-france.org/index.php?goto_centre=ru&contexte=en&id=405

This is the pray i left there this morning.

"Dear Mary mother of Jesus. Dear Jesus, thank you for your spirit being in my E2E challenge. Please be with me when the road is long, the body is week and i want to call it a day. Give me your strength to carry on." Amen

Swindon

2009-06-10T12:51:00.000-07:00

10th July

Swindon visitor

Someone from Swindon is visiting my blog a great deal. You are extremely welcome glad you find the blog of interest but pray please revel yourself and tell me why.

The Highway Code

2009-06-10T12:44:00.000-07:00

10th July 09

The Highway Code for Power Chairs

The Highway Code

Rules for users of powered wheelchairs and mobility scooters (36-46)
(Called Invalid Carriages in law)
36
There is one class of manual wheelchair (called a Class 1 invalid carriage) and two classes of powered wheelchairs and powered mobility scooters. Manual wheelchairs and Class 2 vehicles are those with an upper speed limit of 4 mph (6 km/h) and are designed to be used on pavements. Class 3 vehicles are those with an upper speed limit of 8 mph (12 km/h) and are equipped to be used on the road as well as the pavement.
37
When you are on the road you should obey the guidance and rules for other vehicles; when on the pavement you should follow the guidance and rules for pedestrians.
On pavements
38
Pavements are safer than roads and should be used when available. You should give pedestrians priority and show consideration for other pavement users, particularly those with a hearing or visual impairment who may not be aware that you are there.
39
Powered wheelchairs and scooters MUST NOT travel faster than 4 mph (6 km/h) on pavements or in pedestrian areas. You may need to reduce your speed to adjust to other pavement users who may not be able to move out of your way quickly enough or where the pavement is too narrow.
[Law UICHR 1988 reg 4]
40
When moving off the pavement onto the road, you should take special care. Before moving off, always look round and make sure it’s safe to join the traffic. Always try to use dropped kerbs when moving off the pavement, even if this means travelling further to locate one. If you have to climb or descend a kerb, always approach it at right angles and don’t try to negotiate a kerb higher than the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations.
On the road
41
You should take care when travelling on the road as you may be travelling more slowly than other traffic (your machine is restricted to 8 mph (12 km/h) and may be less visible).
42
When on the road, Class 3 vehicles should travel in the direction of the traffic. Class 2 users should always use the pavement when it is available. When there is no pavement, you should use caution when on the road. Class 2 users should, where possible, travel in the direction of the traffic. If you are travelling at night when lights MUST be used, you should travel in the direction of the traffic to avoid confusing other road users.
[Law UICHR 1988 reg 9]
43
You MUST follow the same rules about using lights, indicators and horns as for other road vehicles, if your vehicle is fitted with them. At night, lights MUST be used. Be aware that other road users may not see you and you should make yourself more visible - even in the daytime and also at dusk - by, for instance, wearing a reflective jacket or reflective strips on the back of the vehicle.
[Law UICHR 1988 reg 9]
44
Take extra care at road junctions. When going straight ahead, check to make sure there are no vehicles about to cross your path from the left, the right, or overtaking you and turning left. There are several options for dealing with right turns, especially turning from a major road. If moving into the middle of the road is difficult or dangerous, you can
stop on the left-hand side of the road and wait for a safe gap in the traffic
negotiate the turn as a pedestrian, i.e. travel along the pavement and cross the road between pavements where it is safe to do so. Class 3 users should switch the vehicle to the lower speed limit when on pavements
If the junction is too hazardous, it may be worth considering an alternative route. Similarly, when negotiating major roundabouts (i.e. with two or more lanes) it may be safer for you to use the pavement or find a route which avoids the roundabout altogether.
45
All normal parking restrictions should be observed. Your vehicle should not be left unattended if it causes an obstruction to other pedestrians - especially those in wheelchairs. Parking concessions provided under the Blue Badge scheme (see 'Other information') will apply to those vehicles displaying a valid badge.
Other information
46
These vehicles MUST NOT be used on motorways (see Rule 253). They should not be used on unrestricted dual carriageways where the speed limit exceeds 50 mph (80 km/h) but if they are used on these dual carriageways, they MUST have a flashing amber beacon. A flashing amber beacon should be used on all other dual carriageways (see Rule 220).
[Laws RTRA sect 17(2) & (3), & RVLR reg 17(1) & 26]

Team to Visit Poppy Factory

2009-06-10T01:05:00.000-07:00

10th June 09

Invitation for team

Clair O’Dowd, the Events Assistance at the RBL, on completing the E2E wrote quote “We would like to offer you and your volunteers a chance to visit the Poppy Factory in Richmond once you have completed the trip” unquote.

This is great news and will show how much appreciation from the RBL, have for all the team and their effort.

Thanks RBL for that. Much appeaciated.

If anyone reading this blog has any other suggestions as a treat for the team a long the route, then can you please email me. Thanks

5 Weeks to Go

2009-06-08T00:46:00.000-07:00

8th June 09

5 weeks to go

With only five weeks cum Saturday to the start of this epic challenge, i am now know my team and can deligate them responsibilites within the team.

This the information i shall be giving to the team along with much more I hope you find it of some interest.

Job Allocation

Camping Arrangements.

Sleeping arrangements.

We shall have four tents.
Tent 1 for the guys sleeping two.
Tent 2 for the girls sleeping 2/3
Tent 3 for me plus 1
Tent 4 for the mess tent and using the hoist, my personal care.

Allocation of responsibilities.

First, can I say thanks for coming?

That I see this challenge as a team effort. None is greater than the whole team. Remember we are here to do a challenge to raise lots of cash for the RBL. Also, remember to have lots of fun and enjoy the moments as they unfold. Not many people do what you are doing going from one end of England to the other. You are going to visit some beautiful parts of the UK, enjoy them and enjoy each other’s company. We are taking a second bike in case anyone of you wish to do a days cycle or just get away from the group for a bit.

To help this challenge move along easily I am going to allocate each one of you, in addition to mucking in with everything, a responsibility within the team. Please help each other in any way you can and all hands to the deck to set up camp or the Youth Hostel.

Team leader for each week, and holder of the credit card, will be

Week 1 Addie
Week 2 Emmanuelle
Week 3 Margaret
Week 4 Emmanuelle.

The team leader will be responsible for paying all the bills, including the campsite, YHAs when we use them, shopping and petrol in the second van. I will put petrol in my van. They will be responsible in helping the other team member involved in my care that day; helping with the cooking, driving the second van, hence they only do a Friday night sleepover. Making sure that the site is clean before you leave. Guys’, laying the table is your job. Nothing changes does it…

Week 1 & 2 Gary is responsible for the Van 1, doing daily checks, making sure the van is loaded properly, and keeping the van clean. Driving my van and looking after Alex.

Week 2 & 3 John is taking on the above task.

Keith will be taking on the responsibility of the tents. Please everyone, take Keith’s’ lead on this one. Keith will see that they are taken down and packed properly. That all pegs are cleaned and put away. He will also take the lead in putting the tents up. Looking after van 2; loading it. (Team leader will be driving van no 2.) Generally in charge of setting up the camp, putting up tables, pumping up beds, ect. While you are doing all this, the girls help where you need them to, ie help in putting up the tents as it takes two, will be making your coffee/tea and cooking your meals.

Jenny x's 2 …. Your main responsibilities for all of my care, including the sleepovers, and along with the team leader, take on cooking for the team; helping with setting up the tents.

Philip. Your main job is been the cyclist getting us both safely from point a to point b. You will not be expected to do any more than that unless you wish to.

Me. I have the best job. I just drive the Alex 40 miles per day and watch you all working hard!