Major Phil Packer wins Helen Rollason award

Helen Rollason Award 2009 - Major Phil Packer

Major Phil Packer has received the Helen Rollason award at the 2009 BBC Sports Personality of the Year show.

The 37-year-old, who is a paraplegic after sustaining injuries while on duty in Iraq in 2008, defied doctors to complete the 2009 London Marathon.

The Pride of Britain Fundraiser of the Year walked two miles a day on crutches to complete the epic feat in 13 days.

He also rowed the English Channel and climbed a 3,000ft mountain to raise £1.2m for the Help The Heroes charity.

This is the 11th year the award has been presented, which was named in tribute to former BBC Sport presenter Helen Rollason who died in August 1999 following a two-year battle with cancer.

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After collecting the award, Packer said: "I've been very lucky to have a family and wonderful friends to support me over the last 18 months."

The Sussex-born man will be medically discharged from the army in February 2010 and will then dedicate his efforts towards setting up the British Inspiration Trust, which will help to encourage activities for young people.