THERE were tears and cheers as 20 people with disabilities proved they can achieve great things.

Determined Toby Wheeler, who has cerebral palsy, has always wanted to race and a few years ago he started walking with a specialised walking frame.

He and his care team looked at taking part in the Park Run in Colchester but it would have taken him a long time to complete. Instead, carer Harriett Renolds got the ball rolling to set up his own racing event, the Wheeler Way Walk.

Toby, 24, from Colchester, said it was a race especially for people with disabilities. The 400 metre event was held at Essex University and was in aid of Team Angus, a charity set up to support tot Angus Grocott who also has cerebral palsy.

Angus was starved of oxygen at birth and needs therapies and equipment to help him.

After the event Toby said in a message of thanks: “I can’t even put into words what it meant.

“Twenty people with disabilities lined up and completed their chosen distance. They worked hard and they proved having a disability doesn’t stop you from doing great things.

“There were tears from the volunteers and team, there were cheers and there were amazing memories made.

“A huge congratulations to every single person there. The Wheeler Way Walk was the first of its kind and a great success.

It is hoped about £6,000 has been raised to support Angus. To donate visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/wheelerwaywalk.

Pictures taken by Steve Brading.