RECOVERING veterans from across the country have descended on North Yorkshire for the Phoenix Winter Games being held at Catterick for the first time.

The annual Games, organised by Help for Heroes, are normally held at Tedworth House in Wiltshire but this year they have switched to Catterick Garrison, which usually hosts the Summer Games.

Running throughout this week, the Games will see teams from Help for Heroes Recovery Centres across the country - including Catterick’s own Phoenix House - compete against each other in a series of events.

The veterans have already tackled a dog sled scurry, new age curling, wheelchair rugby and boccia.

Further events taking place throughout the rest of the week include water polo at Richmond swimming pool and snow tubing at Sunderland Ski Slope.

The results from each event are kept secret until the big reveal at a Gala Dinner and awards ceremony on Thursday night where the triumphant athletes will be celebrated.

The Phoenix Winter Games are organised each year by Help for Heroes to help with the recovery of injured forces personnel both mentally and physically.