Andy Reid to share his inspiring story at special St Helens event

Andy Reid, also a charity campaigner and businessman, lost three limbs after stepping on an IED in Afghanistan in 2009.

Since then, his story of recovery and defiance has been celebrated both nationally and locally.

Now Andy is planning on opening up with more stories from his life by speaking at the event at Saints' Totally Wicked Stadium on Saturday, April 27.

Andy Reid was honoured with the MBE

Titled An Audience with Andy Reid MBE, the event is open to all, public and businesses alike, in support of the Standing Tall Foundation charity, which he and his friend John Tabern, founded in 2020.

He will be accompanied on the evening by STF ambassador and recently retired Saints player Louie McCarthy-Scarsbrook

Andy explained: "My story has been heard by many people up and down the country, on cruise ships and at international conferences, but I’ve never had a proper opportunity to tell it to the people of my town and as it’s a special occasion.

"I’m including some tales in the talk I’ve never shared before."

Andy showed remarkable resilience to recover from his injuries

Louie, who retired at the end of last season, added: "I can’t wait for the night, it’ll be a crackin' laugh with me and my mate Andy, we’ve had some great times in each other’s company and have plenty of tales to tell; I hope as many Saints fans as possible turn up for it." 

Andy, who lives in Rainford, was serving with the Third Battalion Yorkshire Regiment in the British Army when he suffered his devastating injuries.

It was thought at the time that he would not survive, but less than a month later he was meeting up with his former comrades.

His story is both poignant and inspiring and in his 15th anniversary year, he was really keen to get his talk out to a wider audience than just the business world.

Andy added: "Every injured veteran who has survived a life-threatening incident, marks the annual date as their Staying Alive Day.

Andy has taken on numerous endurance challenges over the years

"I’m no different and as it’s a milestone number of years, I thought what better way to mark it, than stage something which would allow me to tell my story to the people that have supported me and my family along my journey."

Pete Emmett, who leads events in Saints 1873 Lounge on matchdays,  will be on hand to compere the evening.

Andy added: ‘As I said, I’m looking for the public to come to this one, of course some businesses are taking tables, but I’m really interested in everyday Saints fans like me."

He continued hat "in particular it would be fantastic if people turned up who went to school with me or knew me back in the day and have a memory they can share on the night", adding with a wink "so long as it’s clean".

To book tickets use the link here or email Charlie on Charlie@standingtallfoundation.org.uk Tables of 10 are £300 standard or £500 for VIP.

You can also buy individual tickets if preferred.