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MACCLESFIELD is mourning a courageous family man who overcame tragedy to enrich countless lives in the town’s disabled community.

Grandfather Michael Pomfret, who has died aged 68, was paralysed from the chest down when his car overturned on a trip in America nine years ago – only to form the town’s wheelchair sports club 18 months later. Wheelies Sports Club has since gone from strength to strength and still meets weekly offering a range of outdoor and indoor activities for free to members.

Despite living in constant pain, tetraplegic Michael, of Byron’s Lane, ceaselessly recruited, campaigned and sought funding for the voluntary club until he died suddenly in Macclesfield Hospital on January 10.

"He was a very kind, generous and loving man," said Margaret, his wife of 47 years.

"Because he cared so much, he campaigned for having pavements lowered and shops made accessible – he never gave up."

Club member Wayne Newton, 18, said: "I have done things I never thought I would do in a million years.

"I’ve been sailing, paragliding, rock climbing and horse riding and tried archery and fencing."

Sir Nicholas Winterton MP, who officially opened the club in November 2001, called Michael "a hugely courageous man".

A retired textiles sales manager, Macclesfield born and bred Michael was visiting daughter Kate in America when his car overturned in snow.

He spent ten days in a Denver hospital and another six months in a specialist spinal unit in Shropshire, and never regained full use of his arms or legs.

The grandfather-of-one, who won a Silk FM local hero award for his bravery, still participated in club activities whenever he could, despite being probably the most disabled member of the club, according to daughter Helen.

The mother-of-two said: "Wheelies was a perfect opportunity for him to be active after spending 18 months lying on his back, which is pretty soul destroying.

"Everybody in Macclesfield will have seen dad in his Father Christmas hat or flying jacket. He was always larger than life. No matter what was going on he had this cheeky grin."

Wayne, from Henbury, the only original member still with the club, added: "He was very passionate for what he did and wanted the best for everyone – he wouldn’t take no for an answer.

"I am still going and it would be great to keep the club running in his memory."

Each year members spend a week away, with trips including Centre Parcs, Devon and the Lake District.

Wendy Meszaros, Michael’s friend and carer for many years, said: "He loved to sit and watch children and adults getting enjoyment from Wheelies.

"He was incredibly talented and the most generous man I ever met."

Outside Wheelies, his interests included music, poetry, theatre and his garden, which he redesigned following his accident. He also had an extension purpose built as a ground floor bedroom.

Sir Nicholas said: "I had huge admiration and the highest respect for the way he overcame his very, very severe disabilities. He was a great guy and the example he set was fantastic."

Paul Smith, executive director of the Spinal Injuries Association, said: "People such as Michael Pomfret make a real difference to the wider disabled community, and through his actions and his example other people can seek to lead full and active lives."

Michael’s funeral takes place tomorrow (Thursday, January 22) at Holy Trinity Church in Hurdsfield, with people encouraged to wear colourful clothing.

Anyone wishing to get involved with the Wheelies, which now meets at Tytherington High School sports hall each Saturday with regular activities such as basketball and badminton, should call Linda Roche on 01625 435338.