On Saturday, September 6, seven teams, each led by a disabled team leader in a wheelchair took on the 13 mile cross-country challenge.

Team members worked together to negotiate the route which began in the Pentlands with an ascent of Harbour Hill and ended in the heart of Edinburgh at Arthur’s Seat.

Capability Scotland Wallace Court resident, Julie Bennett, was one of the team leaders taking on the challenge which was organised by Capability Scotland in partnership with Paradventures, a charity which facilitates disabled people’s adventures.

Julie was joined in the challenge by staff from Wallace Court which is based in Elderslie.

This was the first time Julie had ever been involved in a challenge of this kind. Julie doesn’t use verbal communication but Wallace Court service manager, Michelle Kelly, said they could tell from her facial expression and body language how excited she was about being part of the challenge.

Michelle said: “Julie enjoys walking and swimming and loves to be active but she has never done anything like this before. It was an amazing experience for the whole team. I am so glad we took part.” Dana O’Dwyer, chief executive of Capability Scotland, said: “This is the second consecutive year that Capability Scotland has staged this adventurous event which supports disabled people to experience the thrill of the great outdoors.

“We hope that the event will be a successful fundraiser and contribute to our work supporting disabled people across Scotland to achieve their ambitions and aspirations.

If you would like to sponsor Julie and her team you can do so here http://www.justgiving.com/michelle-kelly14