INVICTUS Games cycling gold medallist Andy Kelsey will officially open Liphook’s second Village Sports Day next month.

Sports day organiser Jane Ives said: “We are absolutely delighted Andy will be joining us on the day to perform the official opening at Bohunt School on July 2 at 10.30am and he will also take a tour of all the sports available on the day.”

When Prince Harry unveiled the UK team for this years’ Invictus Games, among the athletes selected to take part was Surrey’s own Andy Kelsey, a technician within the School of English and Languages.

Andy, whose parents live in Liphook, served in the RAF as aircrew and was injured in the line of duty, resulting in damage to his spinal cord, paralysis of all four limbs and a minor brain injury.

Following rehabilitation at Headley Court, Leatherhead, he became a member of the Great Britain cycling team and was invited to attend trials for the first Invictus Games, which he completed and won two silver medals.

This year, he has taken home gold in the IRB1 cycling time-trial event.

“Sport has always been an important aspect of my life, but it now has an added importance because it enables me to live as normal a life as possible,” he said.

“Without sport the effects of my injuries would be much worse.

“Not only were the Invictus Games a great experience for myself but it was also great for my family. Once it was announced the Games would be in Disney World, Florida, my wife and daughter told me I had to get out training and get selected for the team.

“My friends and family have been a great support throughout my rehabilitation and have made many sacrifices to allow me to train for the event.

“I’m very proud that I was selected to represent the UK team at the 2016 Invictus Games.”

The Invictus Games were set up to challenge wounded, sick or injured service personnel, and those who have left the armed forces, to strive for sporting excellence and prove that, beyond injury, they can achieve extraordinary things.

Mrs Ives added: “Liphook Village Sports Day is a completely free event, giving people of all ages the chance to have a go at any of the sports on offer at no cost. Many sports clubs are throwing open their doors on the day and there are some new and exciting sports taking part this year including Tchoukball and Triathlon, as well as some favourites from last year, like football, tennis, bowls and golf.

“To try out any of the sports, just turn up at any of the locations and join in. The idea of the event is for people to come along and have a go at one or more of the 13 sports on offer and prizes will be awarded for those taking part in the highest number of sports.”

Sports will be taking place at Bohunt School, in Longmoor Road, the recreation ground, off London Road and Liphook Golf Club, at Portsmouth Road, between 10.30am-4pm.

* The Tri-High Triathlon, will take place at Highfield School, on July 3.