Conference Guest Speaker - Phil Packer

Phil described his incredible journey from young tear-away, to army recruit, progression to officer and leader of men and then the devastating blow, in February 2008, when he suffered Spinal Cord injuries whilst on active service.

He described how his self-confidence and self-worth had been dealt a huge blow, but also how, with the fantastic support of his medical team, colleagues, friends and family, he was able to adjust and then to re-focus his life.

Incredibly, Phil soon began to appreciate his many blessings and embarked on a series of personal challenges to help provide support and inspiration to others. In 2009, he completed a channel row, climbed El Captain and completed the London Marathon. Phil explained how he then used his growing celebrity to draw attention to the many causes supporting disabled children, deprived young people and injured serviceman. In 2010, he completed the 26-mile London Marathon in 26 hours and supporting 26 different charities along the way.

Now discharged from the army, Phil described how The British Inspiration Trust, which he has founded, is seeking to raise £15m to create a centre to help with his personal mission to 'inspire, enthuse and support deprived young people; young people with disabilities and injured service personnel'.

During the 40-minute slot, when Phil held the audience's rapt attention for every second, he answered a range of questions from CSSC volunteers and gave a brutally honest and personal insight into a journey few of us could ever imagine. The warmth and emotion of the huge standing ovation he received at the end was a mark of how moving and inspirational his presence had been.

At the presentation dinner later that day, CSSC held a raffle with all proceeds going to The BRIT Trust. With a great response, a fantastic £1,250 was raised. Thanks to everyone who contributed and thanks also to Graham Taylor of On Site Fitness for donating the prizes.

For more information on Phil Packer and The BRIT Trust see Phil's website at www.philpacker.com