Positive thinking, risk taking and seizing every possible is of 'absolute importance' in life, Falklands war veteran and charity campaigner, Simon Weston has said.

Mr Weston was speaking at the M4 Business Network and was joined by more than over 150 members and guests at the Celtic Manor Resort to share anecdotes and memories from his military service, the tragic events which brought him to the nation’s attention, and his subsequent rehabilitation into public life.

After his ship, the Sir Galahad, was bombed by Argentinian forces during the Falklands War of 1982, Mr Weston sustained serious burns to more than 46 per cent of his body. One of the worst injured to return home from the war alive, Mr Weston underwent a long and painful process of recovery.

Yet, despite his life-threatening condition, Mr Weston upheld an unremittingly positive attitude- an attitude which he maintains to this day.

He said: “I never wanted to be defined by what happened to me, but rather by what I did about it.”

As a charity campaigner, political activist, author and media personality, Mr Weston is a man who has overcome great adversity in order help others. He explained that this success required him to develop the ability to maintain a positive attitude, to take 'positive steps' and to perpetually seek out new and exciting opportunities.

Mr Weston also noted that the ability to handle knocks in confidence, refusing to surrender under the pressure of setbacks, and not being afraid to take risks have proven to be invaluable in business.

According to Mr Weston, it’s only by having the confidence to take risks, big or small, and full advantage of every opportunity, that you can ultimately provide yourself with a platform from which to make yourself seen and heard.

Paul Byett, chairman of the M4 Business Network and managing partner of its main sponsor, UHY Hacker Young, said: “Mr Weston is a hero in every sense of the word and we are extremely grateful to him for sharing his inspiring journey with us. His bravery, pragmatism and positivity are peerless. I’m sure everyone who was at the event will agree that his fearlessness and opportunism are to be hugely admired.

“While all the M4 Business Network represents some of Wales’ most resilient and forward-thinking businesses, there are most certainly many invaluable lessons which we can all learn from Mr Weston’s story and indomitable spirit.”

The next meeting of the network will take place on September 12 at the Celtic Manor Resort with guest speaker Ken Livingstone, first elected Mayor of London.

The M4 Business Network is one of the premier networking organisations in South Wales, attracting members from along the M4 corridor. Current sponsors of the club include UHY Hacker Young Chartered Accountants, University of South Wales, The Celtic Manor, Newport City Council, South Wales Chamber of Commerce, Rubin Lewis O’Brien and Johnsey Estates.

For more information about the network or to join call 01633 213318 or visit www.m4businessnetwork.org.