A VETERAN from Newport is currently in Canada to take part in an international multi-sport event for wounded, injured or sick armed services personnel.

Paul Harding was selected for the Invictus Games, which were created by Prince Harry and are this year running from September 21 to October 1 in Toronto.

The 58-year-old, who was in the army for 14 years and served in the Falklands and Rhodesia, amongst others, said: “The atmosphere is fantastic. It is quite daunting, but I am really looking forward to it.

“It is very exciting.”

Mr Harding, who was injured by a bomb explosion in Northern Ireland, will be taking part in several sports, including wheelchair basketball, sitting volleyball and swimming.

He added his first competition is today [TUE] and that it will be indoor rowing, but that he got to Toronto last Tuesday to train.

Mr Harding, of Hawkins Street, works as a school staff instructor at Llanwern High School. “I would like to thank everybody for their support,” he added.