Interview with Zach Eagling. Pride of Britain Winner 2025

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Introduction.

Sara Edwards and Lucy Hindmarch from the CP Network recently interviewed Zach Eagling, an inspiring fourteen-year-old who lives with cerebral palsy and epilepsy. Zach's journey began during the COVID-19 lockdown, when, motivated by Captain Tom Moore, he undertook a remarkable fundraising challenge. At just nine years old, and without the aid of his walking frame—which had been left at school before the lockdown—Zach walked 1.6 miles around his garden. His determination to finish the challenge meant he raised an impressive £20,000 for the Epilepsy Society.

During this challenge, Zach faced targeted abuse online when bullies deliberately flooded his social media with flashing images designed to cause seizures.

Zach’s Mum, Claire, was horrified by this targeted online abuse. On Zach’s behalf and other people with epilepsy, she contacted the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, the Epilepsy Society, and the Law Commission to express her anger and disgust. While the flashing images did not impact Zach directly, he recognised that such attacks could have severe consequences for others living with epilepsy.

Zach and Claire campaigned for online trolls to be held accountable for their actions and for “Zach’s Law” to be added to the Online Harms Bill.

Celebrations.

Zach’s extraordinary efforts were recognised in October 2025 when he was awarded the Teenager of Courage, Pride of Britain award. This honour celebrated his fundraising achievements and his persistent campaign to criminalise the act of sending flashing images on social media, which can trigger epileptic seizures.

The campaign led to a significant legislative change: a new criminal offence within the Online Safety Act, effective from 31 January 2024. The law now makes it illegal to intentionally send flashing images or GIFs to a person with epilepsy with the intent to cause a seizure, carrying a penalty of up to five years in prison.

During our interview, Zach spoke about receiving his award from Ashley Banjo, lead dancer of Diversity, and shared his amazement at Ashley's height. He also received a heartfelt hug and encouraging words from Shirley Ballas, head judge on Strictly Come Dancing.

Future campaigns.

After the success of Zach’s Law, you would think this inspirational fourteen-year-old would sit back and enjoy his accolades and achievements. But not Zach! Work on his next campaign is already in progress. The aim of the campaign, known as Zach’s Right to Ride, is to ensure public transport is more accessible to wheelchair users and disabled people. Zach has launched a petition calling on the government to improve train, bus and other transport services. He already has the support of his Mum and local MPs.

Key goals of the campaign.

More accessible seats on buses and trains.

Better assistance from staff at stations and airports.

Greater care when handling wheelchairs, especially on planes.

To strengthen the campaign, Zach is eager to hear about the travel experiences of disabled people. He has developed a questionnaire to collect important feedback. This will inform and guide future campaign efforts.

Please support this important campaign work by sharing your experiences. Thank you, Zach, for sharing your story with the CP Network and our community.