A HAND cyclist whose triumph over adversity is inspiring people across the UK visited pupils in Hartford on his 1,000-mile campaign.

Adrian Derbyshire is handcycling around the country to talk to as many schools, sports clubs, universities as he can about hate crime, disability, sport and health and wellbeing in the light of his own remarkable story.

Adrian, who lives in Warrington, suffered a brain haemorrhage six years ago, aged 34, which caused chemical meningitis and left him permanently disabled.

But rather than letting circumstance defeat him he fought back, looked up disabled sports on the internet and by 2009 had been chosen to represent Great Britain in Paralympic fencing.

He went on to win two gold and three silver medals in national and international competitions, has carried the Olympic torch, took part in the north west's Paralympic lantern event and is an ambassador for six charities.

Ciara Taylor, a Year 11 student at Hartford CE High School, said: "Adrian is such an inspiration. He really proves that anything is possible.”

He visited the high school during Citizenship Day with his specially adapted trike.

Adrian said: "It's such a proactive school that wants pupils to be ambassadors for themselves but for their school as well.

"They understand the pressures modern teens experience and they want to help, nurture and support their pupils.

"It really is a fantastic school who have embraced myself and my campaign which inspires me to continue this vital campaign.

"To date I've spoken to 41,000 children, young adults, and adults regarding stigma, bullying and hate crime, but to also get those 41,000 inspired to be the best that they can."

Adrian will return to the area again on May 11 when he visits Weaverham High School and on June 14 when he will take part in the Pedal Power Festival in Northwich town centre.

He is also appealing for funding to continue his campaign, which is attracting interest internationally.

For more information visit adrianderbyshire.co.uk.