Paralympic torch-bearer, Claire Lomas, tragically passed away in the Middle East following an accident, her family announced. Known for her remarkable fundraising efforts after being paralysed in a horse riding incident, Claire raised nearly £1million for charity. She made history by becoming the first paralysed individual to walk the London Marathon in a robotic suit, a feat that took 17 days. Her dedication to raising awareness and funds for paralysis-related causes was unwavering.
Claire’s family, from Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire, shared their devastation at her loss and requested privacy to grieve. Before her life-changing accident in 2007, Claire enjoyed a successful career as a chiropractor and excelled in three-day eventing. Following the incident that paralysed her from the chest down, Claire persevered through a period of depression and later focused on fundraising for the Nicholls Spinal Injury Foundation (NSIF).
In 2012, Claire captured global attention by walking the London Marathon in a robotic suit, raising £220,000 for NSIF and subsequently being chosen to light the Olympic cauldron for the Paralympic Games. Her resilience and determination led her to complete other challenging events, such as the Great North Run and Great South Run in the robotic suit, as well as a 400-mile hand-cycling fundraiser. Her efforts earned her an MBE in 2017, presented to her by Prince William.
Despite her disability, Claire continued to defy limitations by learning to ride motorcycles and ski on adapted equipment. She lived with her husband, Dan, and their two daughters, Maisie and Chloe. A funeral for Claire will be held at St Mary’s Church in Melton Mowbray, with details to be finalised soon. Claire’s legacy as a beacon of strength and determination will live on in the hearts of many who were touched by her incredible journey.