Multiple Sclerosis Society set to receive boost in funds from 101 mile mobility scooter challenge

Diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 1998, James Pagram has taken to his mobility scooter to raise funds for the MS Society by embarking on a 101 mile challenge.

Four days into the challenge, Mr Pagram is expected to complete his road trip at around 3pm today.

Mr Pagram said: “The South Downs 101’ers have two simple aims – to raise funds for the MS Society and heighten awareness of the condition. I invite everyone with links to MS to come and join me for all or part of the journey. The more people we get involved on scooters or bicycles, the more we can help people living with, or affected by MS. I am so looking forward to this road trip, it may be difficult at times but I’m sure it will be enormous fun for myself and all involved.

Mr Pagram began his journey at 9am on 9 August from Winchester, and is now driving along the South Downs Way where he will travel his final mile to cross the finish point at Eastbourne.

Diagnosed with MS when he was 33 years old, Mr Pagram took early retirement after the effects of the neurological condition prevented him from being able to continue his 20 year career in the City of London as an accountant.

Multiple Sclerosis affects around 100,000 people in the UK, although treatments and therapies are available to help those affected to live with the effects of the condition.

So far, over £3,500 has been raised for the Multiple Sclerosis Society Eastbourne & South Wealden, through the event which Mr Pagram explained has been in the planning for months.

With an engineer on call at all points of the journey, Mr Pagram will be supported throughout the whole of his trip and will be joined by Stephen Lloyd MP and Vice Chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group for MS for a five mile stretch on Sunday afternoon.

His vehicle of choice has already provided entertainment for viewers of the BBC’s show Top Gear, when the TGA Breeze mobility scooter beat Top Gear presenters in a race through the Welsh countryside.

Daniel Stone, TGA managing director said: “We believe the MS Society delivers invaluable support across the UK and the whole TGA team is proud to be associated with raising funds for this charity. We have met with James and believe he has the commitment and drive to successfully complete this 101-mile challenge.

“Bearing in mind his MS, James’ continued work for the MS Society is admirable and we wish him the very best of luck in raising donations for the charity.”