AN ‘INSPIRATIONAL’ Chard pensioner has come back from a crippling stroke to raise more than £300 with a sponsored walk.

Stella Davey, of Summerfields Road, completed her quarter-of-a-mile walk last Wednesday after suffering from a severe stroke five years ago.

She lost the strength in the right side of her body and had to teach herself to walk and talk again, as well as learning to write with her left hand.

She is a member of the Chard and Crewkerne After Stroke Group, for whom she raised £337.66.

Mrs Davey, who turned 85 the day before the walk, said: “I walked a quarter of a mile for the stroke club at the Chard rugby club.

“I had a stroke five years ago and I couldn’t talk, I couldn’t walk and I couldn’t write. I have got myself to walk again with a stick, and I can write with my left hand now. I was right-handed before.

“We have raised £300. I have to say how good the stroke club are.

"They have so many carers and we have a meal every week. I didn’t want to come to start with, but I am glad I did. They are so good.”

Stella was supported by members of the group and some of her family. She has three children, four grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.

Emma Reed, Stella’s granddaughter, said: “She is a very popular loved member of the Chard community and is the most inspirational woman I know.

“After proving all the doctors wrong and not only learning to speak again, write with her left hand, survive with only strength in one side of her body has re-learnt to walk with a stick. She is the strongest most determined person I’ve ever known.

“Thank you to those who have sponsored her, she is over the moon. She is always helping others – such a positive woman.

“I am so proud. She is the most strong-willed, determined person I know. She is so inspirational and we are all so proud of her.”

Christine Williams from the Chard and Crewkerne After Stroke Group said: “It was a brilliant effort. A marvellous achievement and great determination.

“The Chard and Crewkerne After Stroke Group meet on a Tuesday in Chard Rugby Club. Our aim is to aid in the rehabilitation of stroke victims by physical and mental stimulation. Each week we do some exercises, numeracy and literacy tasks, discuss topics and enjoy social activities.”

For further information please contact Chris 01460 66631 or Jenny 01460 63920.