A MAN who fought back from losing his leg to become a Paralympic champion is set to tell his inspirational story at this year’s Malvern Hills District Community Sports Awards.

Andy Lewis MBE struck gold at Rio 2016 in the triathlon, having already conquered the World and European stage.

After being involved in a serious motorcycle accident at the age of 16, Mr Lewis had to have his right leg amputated at the age of just 22. At the time he was an excellent cross-country runner and hoped to join the Parachute Regiment.

However, he refused to let the life-changing event break him and used sport as a way of relentlessly challenging himself and staying focused on his goal of becoming the best he can be.

Mr Lewis, aged 34, hopes to inspire some of the 200 guests and dignitaries attending this year’s sports awards, which take place at the Bank House Hotel on Thursday, July 13.

60 nominations were submitted for the 13 awards on offer. There are two new categories this year: Positive Change of the Year and Sports School of the Year.

The awards, sponsored by Freedom Leisure, are run by Malvern Hills District Council and recognise the hard work and success of coaches, clubs, volunteers and sporting stars.

BBC presenter Andrew Easton is once again hosting the ceremony, which will be produced by Malvern-based AN Event Services.

Cllr David Watkins, portfolio holder for healthier communities on the district council, said: “Andy’s story is one of courage, commitment and a testament to the desire of the human spirit to triumph over adversity. He’s an inspiration to all of us and I’m looking forward to hearing what he has to say as well as celebrating all the wonderful ways sport is changing lives across the district.”