TWO hundred people attended a combined welcome home party and fund-raising dinner which boosted the Will Clark Fund by £15,000 – with around £10,000 raised by an auction of promises.

Will, who has spent the last five months in the regional spinal unit at Middlesbrough, told The Westmorland Gazette it was 'great to be home' and he was looking forward to visiting his friends around the area over Christmas.

In a speech to guests, the fellrunner, skier and outdoor enthusiast said he was glad to have the memories from an adventurous life, which had taken him around the world.

“It is frightening to think that life can change in such a short period of time,” he said. “The only thing that I can think of is how much worse things could have been if I hadn't been wearing a helmet. So I would really urge people to do this when cycling.

“The message from this is to make the most of what you have, live life and do as much as you can, as you never know what is around the corner.”

Westmorland and Lonsdale MP Tim Farron, who also spoke at the event, said: "It was as much a welcome home for Will as it was a fundraising event. While moving in parts, it was also a real party."