Sally Stoodley, an 84-year-old Alton resident and stroke survivor, has became the first person to complete the St James’ Way pilgrimage path by wheelchair.

She proudly received a certificate to authenticate her remarkable achievement, which she accomplished on November 24.

The St James’ Way is a 66-mile pilgrimage path which is part of the Camino Inglaise. The Way runs from the ruins of Reading Abbey to the historic God’s House Tower in Southampton.

Sally intends to complete the entire Camino Inglaise, around 100 miles, in an all-terrain wheelchair to raise funds for a hoist for the Twyford Ward Stoke Unit at Winchester Hospital.

Having completed the British leg of the Camino Inglaise, Sally is preparing to complete the Spanish leg in early 2025, from La Corina to Santiago de Compostela.

Sally is part of the driving force behind the recently established Alton Stroke Support Group.

The group provides help and support to stroke survivors, their families and carers in Alton and the surrounding villages.

It meets on the first Tuesday of every month at Cardiac Rehab by Alton Sports Centre and organises a wide range of events and activities.

The group also invites professional speakers to talk about health and emotional issues, and to highlight other sources of help and support.

But sometimes it is just a cup of tea, a piece of cake and a chat - the social side is highly valued as suffering a stroke can be very isolating.

All stroke sufferers, their carers and families are welcome. For more information visit [email protected] or call 07340 739251.

To read more of Sally’s story, and to donate to help Sally raise funds for the hoist, visit www.justgiving.com and search for ‘Adversity to Adventure’. Sally’s journey can also be followed on Facebook at Sally Stoodley12.