HE IS the Eastleigh resident who is to take up a major challenge to support people suffering from spinal injuries.

Wheelchair user Paul Smart is set to become the first British man to complete all 500 miles of the Camino de Santiago in a wheelchair.

The 60-year-old became paralysed from the neck down after a fall in 2000.

He was treated at the Duke of Cornwall Spinal Unit at the Salisbury District Hospital for 14 months.

Now he is endeavouring to complete the 500-mile trek along the Camino De Santiago to raise money for the Southern Spinal Injuries Trust (SSIT).

The charity helps fund the equipment needed for people who have suffered spinal injuries.

The Camino de Santiago is a large network of ancient pilgrim routes stretching across Europe, coming together at the tomb of St James in Santiago de Compostela in northern Spain, where, tradition has it, the remains of the saint are buried.

Many follow its routes as a form of spiritual path or retreat for their spiritual growth. It is also popular with hiking and cycling enthusiasts and organised tour groups.

Paul and his team will set off on Sunday, May 6.

Paul, who is a trustee of SSIT, said: “I know this will be incredibly challenging.

“We will be travelling a great distance over some extremely difficult terrain, dealing with the physical hardship and the complexity of my day-to-day care and, of course, any medical issues that may arise.”

Paul will be accompanied by a team of family, friends and carers.

“I feel very positive and passionate about completing this special and very personal journey and of course raising as much as I can for the SSIT which is a charity so close to my heart,” he said.

Victoria Downes, event manager for SSIT, said: “This challenge is huge but knowing Paul’s determination he will complete it, and by doing so will be the first British man to do all 500 miles of the Camino de Santiago in a wheelchair.

“We wish Team Smart all the luck in this challenge and hope the weather will be kind.”

Paul has also recently met paralympic rugby player Aaron Phipps at the Meon Valley Marriott Hotel & Country Club in Shedfield.

To support Paul and his team visit www.ssit.org.uk