Billy Baxter

I would like to nominate my constituent Mr Billy Baxter as a truly inspirational individual to carry the Olympic torch. Not only has Billy shown enormous bravery and commitment in the face of adversity, but he is now giving back to the community and is encouraging others through example to embrace life. A former Staff Sergeant in the British Army, Billy tragically lost his sight after serving in the Bosnian conflict, leading to the loss of his job, home and a life he loved. Blind Veterans UK, a charity dedicated to rehabilitating ex-service men and women, helped Billy look to the future. In 2009, Billy enrolled on a National Diploma Performing Arts course at Cambridge Regional College to develop public speaking and performance skills. After bravely entering a classroom of teenagers, as a 45 year old man, Billy has achieved consistently high marks, including a distinction of 96% in his Bronze LAMDA exam. He now aims to once more enjoy army life by entertaining troops as a show-host and stand-up comedian. Billy has used his new found talents in countless ways such as appearing in the village pantomime as the Blind Dame. He also ran the 2001 London marathon whilst chained to a submariner for charity, holds the blind land speed record for a solo ride on a motorbike at more than 164 miles an hour and has appeared on Top Gear as the 'blind man in a reasonably-priced car'.