Isles of Scilly Travel, part of the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group, has been thanked for “literally moving heaven and earth” to help former Truro mayor Steven Webb on his fundraising challenge for Cornwall Air Ambulance yesterday.

Steven, who is tetraplegic following a diving accident when he was 18-years-old, took a day trip to the Isles of Scilly on board Scillonian III as part of a 500-mile journey around Cornwall in his electric wheelchair.

He said: “We can not thank Isles of Scilly Travel enough for their support and assistance. Every member of staff, whatever their role, were simply amazing.”

Up until the day before he travelled, Steven and his team believed it would be unfeasible for him to make the journey in his electric wheelchair, but with a little extra effort we came together to make it happen.

Steven said: “As someone who has lived in Cornwall all my life, I had never ventured to the Isles of Scilly until now. Being paralysed, I was a little anxious about the journey, particularly about boarding Scillonian III. For some reason, I thought it would be a somewhat difficult adventure. However, it turned out to be the opposite - a seamless and enjoyable day.

“From the moment I arrived, the crew made boarding and disembarking effortless. I have to thank the whole crew for their help and understanding of my situation. Their assistance transformed what could have been a stressful experience into a truly memorable one.

“While the weather was on our side, making the crossing smooth, it was the kindness and professionalism of the team that truly stood out. The islands themselves felt like a calm and peaceful mini version of Cornwall, with all the best bits in one place. Even though my visit was brief, I got to see most of the island on a flying tour.

“This journey has opened up a new place for day trips that I previously thought inaccessible. It's wonderful to welcome the Isles of Scilly to the Cornwall 500, as they are very much a part of Cornwall. It became very clear how cherished the Cornwall Air Ambulance is by the islanders and visitors. It's an incredibly important resource for them to be within 28 minutes of a service that can deliver more than just a paramedic.”

Stuart Reid, chief executive of the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group, said: “We are proud to have played a small part in Steven’s epic journey around the county and are delighted he made it across to St Mary’s.

“Making our services accessible to all is extremely important to us. We will do everything we can to assist anyone travelling with us, by sea or air, who needs a little extra help.

“Everyone at Isles of Scilly Travel wishes Steven the best of luck for the remainder of his challenge to support Cornwall Air Ambulance, a cause which is very close to our hearts.”

Steven is now in the third week of the challenge. You can follow his journey via a live tracker which is releasing details of his route at 10:15 each day by visiting thecornwall500.com

You can also follow his travels on social media @thecornwall500 and support his fundraising via the Just Giving page at: www.justgiving.com/page/steven-webb-thecornwall500