AN architect left paralysed from the chest down following a bike accident has taken on a gruelling challenge.

Life changed overnight for Ian Maskell while he was cycling on the South Downs with a group of friends.

The 56-year-old from Hurstpierpoint was thrown over the handlebars, landed on his back and suffered life-changing spinal cord injury.

After four years of recovery and adjusting to his new situation, Mr Maskell is doing a 100 mile wheelchair push to raise money for the charities that helped him.

The route goes from the London Eye to the i360 on Brighton seafront and Mr Maskell is currently halfway through the challenge.

All money raised from the challenge will be divided between the Architects Benevolent Society, Aspire, Back Up and the Spinal Injuries Association.

Mr Maskell said: “It took me a long time to get to this point mentally and physically and I felt it was a good time to mark the fact I am four years on from what happened.

“The charities have quite simply been brilliant at a time of crisis in my life.

“Their support has been vital for me and my family.

“They have given me practical advice and help, and are helping me in my aim to get back to my work as soon as possible.

“What happened to me, a bicycle accident out in the countryside, could happen to anyone.

“Three people every day suffer a catastrophic spinal cord injury with life changing consequences.

“The challenge has been going well so far and I’m hoping to finish at some point next week.

Mr Maskell started the wheelchair push on May 6, spending nights in a hotel at first before basing himself back at home again and travelling to a new point each day.

He is being supported along the route by friends and posting updates on his progress on an instagram page.

For more information about how to make a donation to Mr Maskell’s fundraising challenge visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com/London2Brightonbywheelchair.