A WORCESTER man left paralysed in a motorbike crash has earned his 'wings' after learning to fly.

Paul Stares gained his flying licence after being awarded a scholarship through charity set up in memory of Second World War ace Sir Douglas Bader who continued to fly despite losing both legs.

The 45-year-old was awarded a scholarship to learn to fly by the charity Flying Scholarships for Disabled People.

Mr Stares also went solo on the aircraft and now has a microlight licence.

Since going on the course he has helped raise funds for the charity through sponsored events.

He has now been recognised for his hard work and determination on the flying course and his fund-raising efforts for the charity with the George Stewart Memorial trophy.

He learned to fly with Shadow Aviation at Old Sarum Airfield near Salisbury.

Mr Stares, who has been in a wheelchair for more than twenty years, said: “ It is fantastic to have the recognition.

"It was a great experience. I did pour my heart and soul into the course.

"I was told I could have 25 hours of flying and simply enjoy that experience or I can work hard and I will progress.

"I chose the latter and at the end of the day I now have a microlight licence and one day would like to own my own aircraft.”

Flying Scholarships for Disabled People (FSDP), based at Fairford in Gloucestershire (www.fsfdp.org.uk) has trained more than 400 people since it was set up in 1983.

Its aim is to give men and women with disabilities the chance to realise their full potential through the mental and physical challenge of learning to fly.

Keith Bayliss Chairman of FSDP said: “Learning to fly changes people’s lives. Because of their disability, our scholars are often told what they can’t do.

"Well our aim is to change that perception and give them the confidence to show themselves and the world what they can do.

"Disability is no barrier to learning to fly. Once they are in the air the scholars talk about having a new found freedom – something they don’t have on the ground."

Mr Stares was presented with his “wings” and trophy by FSDP Patron HRH Prince Faisal of Jordan and Air Chief Marshal Sir Andrew Pulford, Chief of the Air Staff at a ceremony at the Royal International Tattoo.