VETERANS who took part in the second Invictus Games have been given a heroes’ welcome at a Help for Heroes recovery centre as they return for the first time since the event.

Phoenix House recovery centre in Catterick Garrison hosted a heroes’ breakfast on Tuesday (June 14) to welcome the athletes from the Games, which took place in Orlando in May.

The heroes’ breakfast is a Help for Heroes fundraising idea to combine enjoying breakfast with friends or colleagues while raising cash for charity.

Wheelchair rugby bronze medalist Paul Nichol was one of those returning to the centre that helped him in his rehabilitation – and gave him the chance to try out for the Invictus Games.

Former army corporal Mr Nichol has Cauda Equina Syndrome affecting his lower limbs and back, resulting in having to use a wheelchair over longer distances.

Mr Nichol, living in Catterick Garrison but originally from Ashington, said: “It took just as much to prepare mentally as it did physically.

“The Cauda Equina Syndrome caused me to collapse in 2010 and I lost all control of my body from the waist down.

“I used Phoenix House a lot during my rehabilitation and was inspired by the 2014 Invictus Games to give it a go.”

He said competing in the Games was an emotional experience due to the atmosphere and mutual respect among all the nations.

He said: “Everyone cheered each other on. The US public were fantastic too, it was even a bit embarrassing at times because they were shaking our hands and telling us how much they appreciated what we had done.

“There was friendly banter between the nations but it was all in fun. One memorable moment was watching the British and Afghan seated volleyball teams.

“Afghanistan hadn’t had much practice and the British team were giving them a bit of a coaching session beforehand – and even though there were no home supporters, everyone cheered them on.

“It is moments like that that give you hope for humanity – we need more of it in the world.”