BBC News Online: UK: Wales

Paralysed worker's £2.4m payout

Mr Arde was driving the truck when it toppled over

Greg Arde suffered a crushed spine and head when the truck he was driving toppled over in April 1995 at stationery company Duel Ltd, based in Cwmbran, south east Wales.

Trapped under the one-and-a-half tonne vehicle for 20 minutes, Mr Arde's back was broken in three places.

As a result of his injuries, the 28-year-old - who had taken a year out from his accountancy studies to work at the plant - has impaired speech and is paralysed from the waist down requiring 24-hour care from a team of six carers.

His case went to trial back in 1998 when 90% liability was established.

The hearing agreed that damages were to be assessed in March 2002 but the case has now been settled out of court.

"I'm happy with the settlement and just want to get on with my life now," Mr Arde said on Monday.

"I cannot remember much about the accident, just that the forklift truck overturned. I woke up in the way to hospital then went unconscious and didn't come round for four weeks."

Mick Antoniw from Cardiff-based Thompsons Solicitors said the figure was decided upon following "a period of intense negotiations".

He said that the money would pay for round-the-clock care and a new home for Mr Arde who currently lives in Croesyceiliog near Cwmbran.

'Quality of life'

"As far as I am aware this is one of the largest ever settlements for an adult in south Wales.

"Greg is a remarkable individual who has learned to cope with catastrophic injuries. The compensation will help him put the accident behind him and reconstruct his life."

"He used to be a keen rugby player and he still goes to watch sports matches. He was a very fit young man.

"The money is a relief to him that it's over. It had to be in this region for him to be able to pay for his care regime that gives him his quality of life."

Last year, South African-born Mr Arde won a four-year fight to remain permanently in the UK after the Home Office had told he would have to return to the country of his birth.

He said: "It was a big relief when the Home Office minister decided I could stay in this country.

"All my friends are here and the standard of health care is so much better than in South Africa."

Duel Ltd is believed to no longer be in operation.