It was a shock. I have always enjoyed walking and something like this really sets you back. I realised I needed extra support and in 1998 moved to St Stephens residential home - just down the road from where I grew up. It turned out to be a very good move for me as I am able to stay involved in my community.

I am a sign writer by profession. My grandfather and my father were also sign writers so it was passed to me. When Kim (St Stephens activities co-ordinator) found out, she organised calligraphy classes for me. It was fantastic to begin painting again and I was pleased how quickly it all came back. I now sign in my spare time and I have had lots of requests. I also write signs for St Stephens if we have a special event.

I am very involved with all the activities that take place at St Stephens, and help Kim to organise them. Just because it's a residential home doesn&rsquot mean we sit around all day and reminisce. We get out and about as much as possible. I recently enjoyed going to Manchester Airport. We took a trip there so I could watch the planes come and go. It was fantastic.

I also go to my local church coffee mornings once a week where I have met many new friends. As a local man I know many people in the area and it's great I still see them when I am out and about.

My accident and my new situation have never stopped me from doing what I want - in fact my life now is even fuller. There is always something going on at St Stephens, I wouldn't want to live anywhere else."