Kevin’s global adventure is halted in Devon (From Knutsford Guardian)

Kevin’s global adventure is halted in Devon

5:50pm Sunday 9th May 2010

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AN adventurer from Mobberley, who hopes to circumnavigate the globe, has narrowly avoided serious injury just weeks into his expedition.

Kevin Shannon, of Meadowsweet Road, was hit by a car before leaving the country.

The accident happened when the trailer attached to Kevin’s bike was struck on the outskirts of Paignton, Devon.

He was sent tumbling into a grass verge and his bike and belongings were scattered across the road.

Kevin said: “One moment I was cycling down the road and the next I was picking myself up out of the grass verge.

“I didn’t actually know what had happened, until a couple who had seen the accident filled me on the details.

“I think I’m quite lucky that it wasn’t more serious.”

The 23-year-old suffered a strained ligament in his left leg, as well as minor cuts and bruises, forcing him to rest for around three weeks before continuing on his journey.

His bike was also damaged in the accident and the repairs cost £300.

“This has made quite a dent in the expedition funds,” he added.

Kevin hopes to raise £1m for charity, by cycling more than 40,000 miles across five continents and sailing 10,000 miles across the Atlantic and the Pacific Ocean.

The zero emissions odyssey will see him tackle temperatures ranging from -30 degrees to 50 degrees and powerful Patagonian winds and tropical storms.

Kevin’s mission was inspired by the renowned Mobberley explorer George Mallory, who died in his attempt to be the first to reach the summit of Mount Everest in 1924.

He said: “One of my earliest memories is sitting on the floor of the assembly hall at primary school and being told by my head teacher about this incredible man.

“I was fascinated and it was then that I knew I wanted to do something similar when I grew up.”

The expedition is to raise money for Combat Stress, the leading charity for treatment of ex-servicemen and women suffering from conditions, such as post-traumatic stress disorder.

Kevin is also still seeking a financial sponsors.

To pledge your support, visit becauseitisthere.co.uk.

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