Lizzie Tench
In March 2012, Lizzie Tench was out cycling with her partner when she was struck by a trailer being towed by a four-wheel-drive vehicle. She suffered multiple injuries including spinal cord damage which left her paralysed from the waist down. A few months later, when at her lowest ebb, she visited Calvert Trust Exmoor with the Back Up Trust. “My stay at Calvert Trust Exmoor was the turning point. I realised that life wasn’t over and there was still so much I could do.” Lizzie went on to become the British Paratriathlon champion in 2016, won Silver at the ‘Worlds’ and competed for England at the Commonwealth Games.
Michael Caines MBE
One of the UK’s most celebrated chefs, Michael Caines lost his right arm in a car accident when he was 25. His determination and relentless positivity has since seen him become a successful and imaginative hotelier, with Lympstone Manor overlooking the Exe estuary marking the pinnacle of an extraordinary career. Michael has also found the time to help in the creation of The Coach House by Michael Caines at Kentisbury Grange close by Calvert Trust Exmoor. He has held two Michelin stars for 18 consecutive years and built his reputation on a highly personal and distinctive modern cuisine that celebrates the finest local produce and ingredients from Devon and the South West and draws on influences from his travels around the world.
Shaun Gash
Following his car accident 27 years ago, wheelchair user Shaun has been determined to pursue his dreams. He was the first paraplegic to attempt to climb Mount Kilimanjaro following the Rongai Route, reaching 16,700 feet before having to evacuate. He has also sky-dived at 15,000 feet and completed a Land’s End to John O’Groats wheelchair push. “Another mountain and another quest to show there are no barriers. Always believe,” he says. “There is a saying: ‘If life gives you lemons, make lemonade’ – turn something bitter into something sweet.”
Mary King
One of the UK’s most famous professional horse riders, Mary King is a British equestrian who is best known for competing in eventing. In the height of her career, she represented Britain at 6 Olympics, and has won gold, silver, and bronze medals at world and and European championship level, a phenomenal achievement for any athlete! Along with competing at Olympic level and in national classes, Mary also breeds horses and is incredibly passionate about making riding accessible for all, making her the perfect ambassador for Calvert Exmoor!