A QUADRUPLE amputee has inspired members at a Say Aphasia meeting in Winchester.

The charity helps those with aphasia, a language disorder that affects communication. 

At the groups, members meet and share their experiences. 

Their latest meeting at St Peter's Church in Jewry Street, Winchester, hosted the "captivating" Alex Lewis, from Stockbridge, so he could speak about his condition.

Aged 11, Alex was diagnosed with Group A streptococcus, resulting in the amputation of all his limbs. At the time, doctors told him he had less than a one per cent chance of survival.

But Alex did survive, later going on a series of adventures ranging from skydiving to kayaking in freezing temperatures in Greenland, climbing mountain peaks in Ethiopia to cycling to far ends of the World.

Lloyd Brammer, peer leader at Say Aphasia Winchester and Southampton, described Alex as "an unstoppable and inspiring young man" as well as "a Superman with inner strength."

He added: "He’s a warm-hearted intelligent individual, a family man, who’s devoted to his son and wife. 

"Alex was telling us when he was feeling depressed what gave him the will-power to live to show the world what can be done. It was then that his Labrador dog Holly walked into the ward to greet Alex.

"I feel blessed having met this incredible person."

The Winchester and Southampton branch of Say Aphasia is run by Jez Hodgkinson and meets between 10am and 12pm on Mondays every fortnight.

For more information, visit sayaphasia.org.