Nearly £5,000 has been raised by a JustGiving page set up for Farnham-based Paralympic legend Rachel Morris’ new wheelchair.

Morris needs a new wheelchair to take part in marathons – and the town’s sporting community has been only too happy to help.

Farnham Runners and Atomic Boxing Club decided to undertake 24-hour endurance fundraising events to help their elite athlete colleague reach her £9,000 total for the kit.

More than 250,000 punches were thrown and just under 400 miles were run – all in 24 hours – and the JustGiving page has now raised £4,905.

Morris – the Farnham-based, three-time Paralympic medallist, who scooped gold and bronze in handcycling at the Beijing and London games before later securing a gold in rowing at Rio de Janiero – is now setting her sights on the gruelling 26-mile road race, and London is the first event in her sights.

But hearing that she needed a new chair to compete, fellow athletes from Atomic Boxing Club and Farnham Runners donned their gym kit to help raise vital funds.

Farnham Runners pounded out the miles on a treadmill at Brambleton Hall, before taking to the streets in the local area.

Many of the runners used the endurance event as essential training for the London Marathon.

Club member Jacquie Browne said: “We have ten members competing, including myself and Rachel, this year. Everyone in the club gets involved to help with the training of the athletes and the turnout from our members has been brilliant.”

Atomic Boxing Club members set themselves a challenge of punching a training bag non-stop for 24 hours at their Brambleton Hall home.

Shane Carrington, head coach of the Atomic Boxing Club, said: “All ages at our clubs got involved, from aged five to senior members.

“We are not at the final total yet so please help by donating.”

As well as competing in races, Morris, 43, said the new chair would allow her to help coach, and train with, the Farnham Runners.

“It will enable me to assist at track sessions while developing accessibility for anyone with a disability, especially the young,” she added.

“I am totally blown away by the support – it’s been amazing to see the two great clubs come together and I’m really proud of everyone that has helped.”

Anyone who would like to make a donation should visit the JustGiving page at: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/rachel-morris-40

Graeme Main