Wheelchair user highlights Thames Path accessibility issues

Lottie Chatfield, captain of the Surrey and GB Wheelchair Cricket team, is undertaking a wheelchair journey covering the entire length of the River Thames. The challenge, dubbed 'Rolling on the River', began at the Thames' source in Kemble and is set to finish on the Isle of Grain. Chatfield is undertaking the journey to raise money for two charities: the Little Princess Trust, for which her friend Megan is also donating hair for wigs, and the Valley End Cricket Club Rascals, a disabled cricket section that supported Chatfield when she first started using a wheelchair.

Accessibility Barriers on the Thames Path

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The journey has highlighted significant accessibility issues along the Thames Path, with Chatfield reporting numerous obstacles that make large sections impassable for wheelchair users. These include many steps, narrow gates, and rough terrain. Even within London, where better accessibility might be expected, the signposted route has presented difficulties. Chatfield described an incident at Chiswick Quay where the path involved steps and a narrow bridge that her wheelchair could not fit through, forcing her to move out of her chair and shuffle across.

The use of Radar Keys, which can open some gates, has been a partial solution. Chatfield and her companion Megan discovered this partway through the challenge, but found that not all gates are compatible. Some gates that are designed for Radar Keys have locks that are extremely stiff, and one key even snapped during an attempt to open a gate. The number of punctures to Chatfield's tyres has also been considerable, with 15 recorded so far, including one irreparable puncture near Radley that required a creative repair using grass to reach a point where assistance could be obtained.

Personal Motivation and Journey Highlights

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Chatfield stated that the challenge was initiated partly as a personal distraction during a difficult period. She was inspired to consider the full length of the Thames after a shorter, leisurely wheelchair walk with her friend Megan. While acknowledging the hardships, Chatfield identified the stretches through the Cotswolds and approaching Oxford as particularly beautiful and peaceful, finding them worthwhile despite the difficult sections encountered.

A notable personal highlight was the section from Walton to Kew Bridge, completed on Saturday, September 5th. This route passed through the same area where the idea for the full Thames journey originated, offering a surreal sense of accomplishment. Chatfield also credited her friend Megan, a pastry chef, for providing essential support and delicious baked goods that have helped maintain morale throughout the expedition.

Conclusion of the Challenge

The 'Rolling on the River' challenge is scheduled to conclude on Saturday, September 26th. Chatfield anticipates that family and friends may join for the final part of the journey. Following the completion, plans include a celebratory dinner and a period of rest. Chatfield indicated that future plans are not yet fully decided, but a reverse journey along the Thames Path has been mentioned.