A MAN paralysed from the chest down has been given a new lease of life thanks to an adapted all-terrain vehicle.
Paul Clemes, from St Austell, approached David Barnes, of agricultural and turf machinery dealer Masons Kings, when he needed a new vehicle to help him enjoy the great outdoors.
The dealer, based at Winnard’s Perch, near St Columb Major, then worked with Adaptacar to modify a John Deere Gator utility vehicle to suit Paul’s needs.
Paul said: “I have dealt with David for a long time on all my stuff and David said he would be able to help me out through Masons Kings.
“I have been dealing with David quite a while and he has always looked after me. He’s done a good job this time as well.
“I have had all the controls adapted so it can all be operated by hand now and not by any foot controls.
“It gives me a lot more freedom, now this has all been adapted for me, where before I couldn’t get out. I’ve got a winch on the side that I can use to get in.
“I can transfer in and out from the vehicle from a wheelchair as well.
“The message I want to get across to people is just go and speak to people like David from Masons Kings and they’ll help you like they have helped me.
“This adapted John Deere machine will change parts of my life. I now have the freedom to go where I want and it shows that there are solutions for people with disabilities.
“Just because you’re disabled, you’re not isolated.”
David said: “What this will mean to Paul is that it will give him the freedom to get back to doing what he loves.
“We are really pleased to help Paul with this.”