Spinal injury man calls at Pontymoile in tour of Wales (From Free Press Series)

Spinal injury man calls at Pontymoile in tour of Wales

7:10am Thursday 11th October 2012 in News

PHIL Packer MBE, who suffered a spinal cord injury in 2008, continued his tour of Wales by walking six miles at Pontymoile Marina, Fountain Road.

Mr Packer, who was once told he was unlikely to walk again, is inspiring young people in Britain as he takes part in his extraordinary Brit 2012 Challenge walking 2,012 miles across the UK.

He arrived in Wales on Sunday, September 30 having already completed 1,490 miles of his challenge.

For Phil, walking eight to ten miles is the equivalent of more than a marathon for a person without a spinal cord injury.

He aims to prove everything is possible and is hoping to raise £15 million for his charity the British Inspiration Trust (BRIT) to build the BRIT Centre of Inspiration for young people facing adversity.

He started the walk in January and, when he finishes in December, he will have walked the equivalent of around 310 marathons in 330 days.

Phil’s vision for BRIT is to ensure the charity works in partnerships with other charities, providing support for more young people in need.

He said: “This is about providing a physical legacy for our young people who face their darkest times.

“I hope that 2,012 businesses will show their support of our young people who face adversity by creating a Centre of Inspiration together.

I also hope to involve young people throughout the year and encourage teams to help charities within their communities.”