A range of fundraising events will take place across the UK on Friday 20 May in aid of Spinal Cord Injuries Awareness Day.

The Spinal Injuries Association (SIA), the leading UK charity for victims of spinal injury, has organised a cycle challenge and nationwide fish and chip supper as part of its annual Spinal Cord Injuries Awareness Day on 20 May.

The SIA, which provides information and support for victims of spinal injury, created the event with the aim of raising awareness of the everyday struggles of spinal cord injury survivors.

The ‘Three Capitals Cycle Challenge’, which is taking place between 19 – 23 May, involves cyclists travelling from Budapest to Bratislava, before finishing in Vienna, covering a total of 350km in just three days.

The charity has also organised a ‘Great British Fish and Chip Supper’, where members of the public will be encouraged to create their own food event, inspiring others to donate money and ‘make the batter matter’.

Samantha Hemsley, national head of the serious injury team at Thompsons Solicitors, said: “A serious spinal cord injury can prove to be life-changing and people who have suffered such injuries are likely to face many new challenges.

“From our work with spinal injury survivors, we know that the support and advice provided by charities such as the SIA are invaluable in helping victims rebuild their confidence and a level of independence.

“Spinal Cord Injuries Awareness Day is an excellent way of helping to boost public awareness and understanding of spinal injuries, while simultaneously raising money and uniting people for a great cause.”