Peter Brady, a former maintenance electrician from Colne, has started walking again thanks to Pendleside Hospice’s day services.

A tumour was discovered in Peter’s leg which resulted in him having his leg and part of his pelvis removed, leaving him mostly wheelchair bound.

He now comes to the hospice on alternate Thursdays and once the day services staff discussed what his ultimate goals were from visiting, they set to work.

He now uses a frame to assist his walking and he’s hit the road in an adapted car to get around – another one of his goals.

Peter said: “Having some of my freedom back has been a blessing as I live in a house that is up a long rough track, so it was very difficult in my wheelchair.

“I used to be picked up by the hospice minibus to get to Pendleside but now I can drive myself. I’ve also taken myself off to Martin Mere Wetland Centre to see the winter birds – that was lovely.”

Julia O’Neill, Pendleside Hospice’s day service, family support and outpatient manager, thinks Peter has really benefited from the encouragement provided by the day services team.

She said: “It’s been an absolute pleasure to see Peter achieve his goal to walk and drive again. Our model of care is a rehabilitative one and we help patients set achievable goals to work on during the time they spend with us.

“Peter initially worked with the physiotherapist in the gym to build up upper body strength. His first goal was to be able to move around independently, his second one was to mow his lawn and he’s now achieved his ultimate goal of being able to drive again.

“When I met Peter’s sister recently, she told me she thought Peter coming to the hospice had been a real turning point in him becoming independent again and boosting his confidence.”

Peter was once a keen runner with Clayton Harriers and enjoyed swimming.

He said: “I really fancy getting back into swimming – it’s my new goal and I’m hoping to attend a local pool again with my brother soon.”