Eastleigh veteran Rob Shenton is set to represent Team UK at the inaugural winter edition of the Invictus Games in Canada in 2025.

The team, consisting of 64 wounded, injured and ill servicemen and women, has been chosen based on the anticipated benefits the Games will bring to their recovery process.

Rob, who served in the Army for 25 years with tours in Bosnia, Kosovo, Northern Ireland, and Afghanistan, was medically discharged in 2016 owing to Recurrent Depression and PTSD, and minor Musculoskeletal issues.

He had faced suicidal tendencies, but found solace in sports in his thirties, participating in challenging competitions like the Marathon des Sables and the North Pole Marathon.

Rob suffered skull, back, neck, and shoulder fractures in a cycling accident in August 2020, but has attended the Battle Back Centre four times since his discharge for support.

Rob hopes to compete in Nordic Skiing, Biathlon, and Indoor Rowing.

Mr Shenton said: "It means so much to be selected for Team UK. It means a thank you to those that have helped me - my fiancée, wife by the time of the Games, and my running coach. It's for them as much as me because they've really helped me through the last few years.

"I've broken my neck. I've had a few suicide attempts. It's been hell, really. But now it really puts that to an end really. Thinking about all the training I’ll be doing; I know I'm going to find out something about myself that will help build the rest of my life, accepting I can’t serve again, but realising the things I can do, to help me shape what is ahead of me."

Created by Prince Harry in 2014, the Invictus Games is an international adaptive multi-sport event designed to support the recovery journey of wounded, injured, and ill servicemen and women.

The games are due to occur from February 8-16, demonstrating the strength and resilience of military personnel and improving respect and understanding for those with disabilities.