A FORMER soldier who was blown up in Afghanistan is gunning for a top award in his new career as a personal trainer.

Glenn Hill, who works at Bannatyne Health Club in Chester-le-Street, County Durham, was nominated for the National Fitness Awards by several clients and, having had his work assessed by a judging panel, has made it onto a seven-name shortlist for the honour.

This is the second consecutive year Mr Hill, 40, has made the shortlist.

He said: “It’s an honour to make the final shortlist. It makes it even more special that I was nominated by my clients.”

Mr Hill spent 18 years in the Army, serving in Bosnia, Northern Ireland and Afghanistan, where during his final tour of New Year’s Eve 2012, he was injured in a roadside bomb attack.

Nicola Turner, general manager at Bannatyne’s, said: “Glenn is always busy on the gym floor. It came as no surprise when I heard he had been shortlisted.

“We wish him the best of luck and hope he brings home the award. If there’s anyone who deserve to win, it’s Glenn.”

The winners of the National Fitness Awards will be announced on Friday, December 4.