ALLERFORD woman Mo Dewdney will be aiming high when she embarks on a 28-mile journey from Porlock Weir to Bossington Beach.

The 36-year-old, who has been paraplegic since a road traffic accident 13 years ago, will be travelling via Dunkery Beacon - the highest point on Exmoor.

And she and two friends, who are also disabled, will be attempting the 1,705 feet above sea level climb using handcycles.

Mo will be accompanied by 18-year-old Jack Davey and 20-year-old Jordan Bright, fellow team-mates from the Exeter-based Devon Otters wheelchair basketball club.

The journey on September 20, dubbed the Dunkery Challenge, is aimed at boosting the funds of the club and also the Somerset and Dorset Air Ambulance.

Both Mo and Jordan have good reason to be grateful to the air ambulance service, although in other parts of the country.

"I would not have survived if the air ambulance had not picked me up after my accident," said Mo.

"In a rural area like Exmoor, the air ambulance plays a vital role in the emergency services but is only funded by donations.

"Any money raised will ensure that it is definitely there to help save someone's life."

Jordan was also saved by the air ambulance service after a car accident when he was aged 11, andf his injuries resulted in him having both legs amputated above the knee.

He has been playing for the Devon Otters for more than eight years, with wheelchair basketball having played a big part in helping him to make friends, have fun and keep fit.

Jack was born with spina bifida and underwent his first operation when he was just ten days old.

He has been with the Devon Otters for six years and as a Great Britain hopeful now plays at elite level, with the game helping every aspect of his life, including improving his confidence.

"After the Paralympics the importance of disabled sport was highlighted as well as the dedication and skill it requires," said Mo.

"But what didn't quite make the news was the prohibitive cost of basic equipment to be able to compete."

The basic basketball chair starts at £1,500, rising to £3,000 for a competition chair.

And each chair has to be made for each individual player as the range of disabilities can be great.

The Devon Otters currently has a 15-strong squad playing at first division level and not only has to find funds to cover the cost of the chairs but also to drive to matches across the south of England.

"Any money raised will help ensure that this team can continue to support people into playing sport at the highest level and bring on the players who will be needed for the next Paralympics," said Mo.

The trio are hoping people will cheer them on when they attempt their challenge.

For more information contact Mo on 07796161404 or to make a donation online go to http://www.gofundme.com/429sw8">http://www.gofundme.com/429sw8.

Photo: Steve Guscott