Strongman Simon Plant pulls off impressive feat

Pulling a 13 tonne truck with one hand was all in a day’s work for strongman Simon Plant when he achieved a new Guinness world record at Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice.

Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice, in Sheffield, offers care and support to children with a shortened life expectancy, both in their own homes and at its hospice in North Anston.

During his record attempt Simon “Power” Plant was cheered on by children, their families and staff, and he showed how his incredible strength, regular gym sessions and high protein diet made all the difference, as he pulled a huge articulated vehicle an incredible 50 feet.

Simon’s official Guinness World Record framed certificate will soon be taking pride of place on the walls at Bluebell Wood, which supports around 250 children and young adults in South Yorkshire, North Nottinghamshire, North Derbyshire and part of North Lincolnshire.

The world record is the latest feat by Simon, who has previously pulled 14 cars at once, lifted six people up on a board and towed a two tonne truck. To keep his fitness at peak levels, Simon trains three times a week and eats bacon and eggs, a whole chicken, five or six jacket potatoes and two steaks every day.

Simon also puts his ability down to natural strength and the support of his former trainer, Errol Etherington.

Strongman, Simon, said: “Errol, who sadly lost his life to cancer in 2009, was a great trainer and friend who taught me everything I know about power-lifting. He helped me to appreciate that I have a natural gift that I can put to good use. It’s been a privilege to support Bluebell Wood and the extraordinary work it does with children and their families.”

Director of care, Liz Webster, said: “We’re delighted to have hosted Simon at Bluebell Wood for his world record triumph. We’re all about creating special memories for the children, young adults and families who visit us and this certainly managed to do that.”

It costs more than £4m to run Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice, providing support both at the hospice and in the community. To help Bluebell Wood make more memories for the 250 children they care for, visit www.bluebellwood.org website.