A FORMER Knighton man was greeted by crowds after walking 167 miles in aid of a charity that supported his brother after he tragically lost the use of his legs.
Simon Licence, 40, was injured when playing rugby for Knighton in 1997, which resulted in him being unable to walk.
But Simon’s life did not stop, and he has continued to live life to the full following the help of the Charity ‘Back Up’ who have helped thousands of people with mentoring, wheelchair training and activity courses, as well as support in getting people back to work or school after an injury.
Simon’s brother, Ben Licence, who now lives in Stratford, London, works at Canary Wharf for the Olympic Games 2012 organising committee.
Looking slightly weary, Ben and his 12-year-old nephew, Joe Matthews were this week welcomed back by a large crowd of cheering family and friends as they completed their walk from London.
Ben, who raised well over his target of £2,000 said: “I’m very chuffed it all went well although the first three days were terrible, I had lots of blisters but after that it was ok.”
They arrived back just before 6pm to see banners welcoming them placed along Brookside Square where a welcoming party awaited.
Ben thanked everyone who supported him including managers at the four hotels who gave him accommodation, all who sponsored him, his wife Krissi for all her support and his mum, Lynne for sorting out the Knighton end of the walk.
On his welcome to Knighton, Ben added: “It was fantastic. I was surprised how many people turned up.
"£185 in sponsor money was given to me and members of my family just from the people there thank you to them all.”
If anyone still wants to sponsor Ben he has a Just Giving account at www.justgiving/benlicence.com