A MOTHER who kept her determination to live a full life after being paralysed will be the first participant in a new wheelchair race.

Amanda Worne, who was left in a wheelchair after breaking her back in cycling accident in 2015, has persuaded Worthing 10k’s organisers Runbase to hold the event’s first ever 1km wheelchair race this year.

Ms Worne, 45, from Bognor, now gives motivational talks at speaking events and was a keen runner whose last race on foot before her accident was the Worthing 10k.

She said: “There are people who don’t walk and they have the most amazing life and live a fuller life than most people who do have legs. I am happy with my lot.

“My accident happened when I was cycling down a hill and my breaks failed, causing me to have this near death experience.

“I am so grateful to the organisers for considering my story and the passion I had for running and allowing me the opportunity to still take part.

“I will be using a hand bike to take part in the race and a friend will be running with me to keep me company, as we set off slightly before the 10k runners.

“It shows the event is moving with the times and trying to promote equality.”

The start line is located on the coastal road opposite the junction of Grand Avenue.

Competitors race in an easterly direction, turning on to the promenade opposite the junction of Heene Road.

The final stretch of the race is along the promenade to the finish line.

Gavin Stephens, co-owner of Runbase, said: “We met last week with Amanda to talk about the race and were amazed by her commitment after the terrible accident she experienced.

“Her energy and thirst for life is just truly inspirational and we wanted to do all we can to accommodate her needs and make her a part of the event.”

Ms Worne will be giving a talk about overcoming traumatic experiences at the Amex Stadium on Tuesday, March 28.

Runbase is encouraging others to take part in the wheelchair race on Sunday, June 4 and you can find out more information by visiting worthing10k.co.uk.