Andy Reid voted 'Inspiration of the Year' at Ex-Forces Business Awards

At a prestigious ceremony at the Grosvenor Hotel in London, Andy Reid beat off stiff competition to land the accolade at the British Ex-Forces in Business Awards on Thursday, June 29.

The award recognised the incredible obstacles that the Rainford dad-of-two has overcome since the devastating injuries he suffered while serving in the Army.

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Andy completing the St Helens 10k (Image: Dave Gillespie)

After stepping on an IED while on a tour of Afghanistan in 2009, Andy suffered life-changing injuries that resulted in him losing three limbs.

Despite the difficulties he has faced, the dad-of-two has become well-known for the incredible challenges he has completed, such as becoming the first triple amputee from the UK to climb the 18,000 feet to the summit of Kilimanjaro last year.

Using his story to inspire others, Andy has also set up the Standing Tall Foundation to support the delivery of mental health counselling and addiction support services in St Helens.

After receiving an MBE for his work supporting veterans and people with disabilities, the Ex-Forces award is the latest in a string of accolades that the Rainford dad has been celebrated with.

Andy with his MBE (Image: Andy Reid)

Speaking about his award win, Andy said: "It was a fantastic evening and I couldn’t be more chuffed and honoured to have won this award.

"I don’t consider myself an inspiration, I just get on and do what I think is right and try to help others along the way, but it is incredible to get this recognition.

Asked what his secret was, Andy added: "No secret, just hard work. I am lucky to have a loving and supporting wife in Claire and a great team around me at the Standing Tall Foundation.

"They help me to be the best version of myself I can be, every day."

Andy on his climb up Mount Kilimanjaro (Image: Andy Reid)