Lamin Manneh – disabled war veteran from TV’s DIY SOS ‘Home for Veterans’ special

Hi, my name is Lamin and I’m 39 from Manchester. You may remember me from the BBC DIY SOS ‘Homes for Veterans’ Special.

This episode was the largest challenge yet to be undertaken by this amazing BBC TV programme when over 20 homes were converted and renovated for injured ex-servicemen and women like myself. My family and I were the lucky recipients of one of the new accessible homes that Nick Knowles and his amazing team of tradesmen built for us in only a 2-week period. During the filming I was delighted to meet HRH The Duke of Cambridge and HRH Prince Henry of Wales. I continue to be helped by the charity Walking with the Wounded, they are so supportive. 

I’m originally from Gambia and moved to Britain in 2005 to join the British Army. As I came from a Commonwealth country I was allowed to join the British Armed Forces and served in the Irish Guards for five years. On New Year’s Eve 2010, I was unfortunately severely injured by an exploding IED in Afghanistan resulting in the loss of both my legs and one arm. However I continue to rebuild my life, remain positive and will be competing in the Invictus Games, Orlando, during May. Following that, I am really honoured to be appearing at the Mobility Roadshow as a show Ambassador – I have been recommending the show to all my contacts.

I have always had a massive passion for cars and sport so the chance to attend the Mobility Roadshow and drive around Silverstone is a dream come true. I drive an adapted Qashqai however the opportunity to test drive the latest accessible cars at the Mobility Roadshow promises to be unforgettable. Just before attending the Roadshow I will have competed at Rowing, Archery, Shot put and Discus at the Invictus Games, a Paralympic-style tournament for disabled servicemen and women. Hence I will also be really looking forward to playing the various accessible sports available at the Roadshow event and sharing my Invictus experiences. 

Day-to-day living can be tough with physical disability, however keeping your mental health in good order can be harder. By coming to the Roadshow I hope I can help as many people as possible sustain a positive mental attitude.