A COLWYN Bay man will be returning to his roots to share his inspirational story at one of the most prominent dates on the calendar.

Flt Lt Nathan Jones has been confirmed as the special guest speaker at Rydal Penrhos School’s annual Speech Day, which will take place on Saturday, May 26.

The former international skier and rugby player was involved in a flying accident while serving as a Royal Force Air Force pilot at Camp Bastion, which resulted in a broken back after saving the lives of those on board by steadying the Voyager aircraft after it was sent into a 4,400ft-dive in just 29 seconds.

After extensive rehabilitation, Flt Jones has been left with nerve damage and partial paralysis of his calves following the incident.

Although he is now unable to take part in his specialised sports of rugby and skiing due to their high impact nature, the son of ex-Rydal Penrhos teacher Ken won a series of competitive skiing titles after competing for six months following the injury.

This has been followed with a plethora of success at the Invictus Games, which is an international Paralympic-style multi-sport event in which wounded, injured or sick armed services personnel and their associated veterans take part in sports.

The inspiring athlete continued his phenomenal success in the competition by helping the British relay side to gold in the 4x50 metre freestyle final alongside Steve Alman, Luke Reeson and David Wiseman.

Flt Lt Jones enjoyed another hugely successful games after securing a silver medal in the Men’s Road Cycling IRB3 Final, and he also secured a bronze medal in the 50 metre backstroke at the 2016 event in Orlando.

Sarah Ritchie, alumni and development director at the school, said: “We’re so pleased that Nathan is returning to Rydal Penrhos to share his story with us.

“His determination, positivity and will to succeed are incredible, and our pupils (and guests) are sure to be inspired by the journey he has been on since leaving school.”