Paul Spence sees his KCOM van as a symbol of hope

It may just be a name on the side of a van – but to Paul Spence it represents much more.

After fighting his way back to fitness following a traumatic brain injury in 2012, being nominated as one of KCOM’s van heroes means a lot to Paul.

The former electrician, who now runs the charity PAUL For Brain Recovery, was one of 12 local heroes chosen by the public to have a KCOM van named after them as the communications company expands its fleet.

Paul’s van is one of a dozen newcomers which will join the 96 named in 2017 as part of the UK City of Culture celebrations when vehicles were named after Hull legends such as William Wilberforce, Amy Johnson and Jean “The Bee Lady” Bishop.

Paul says he’s looking forward to seeing his van out and about on the roads of Hull and hoping it will provide hope to others who have suffered brain injuries.

He said: “It’s incredible really, especially with the journey I’ve been on. I’ve come through adversity, struggle, depression and some pretty dark times and now I’ve got to this point where I’ve rebuilt my life and I’m in a position where I can help other people. It’s nice to know that public have thought that’s worthy of recognition.

“It’s lovely to think that people have spent the time to nominate me. Everyone has heard of the KCOM vans and it’s a real badge of honour. Now I’ll have to tell my friends and family to keep their eyes peeled for it on the road.

“I also hope that people who may have had a brain injury will see the van out and about and it will inspire them to know that they can go on and still achieve something and make something of their lives.”

PAUL For Brain Recovery is based at the Wilberforce Health Centre, in Hull city centre, where its five-strong team helps around 160 people a month from all over the UK who have suffered acquired brain injuries.

As well as running marathons to raise money for the cause, Paul is about to undertake a seven day trek up Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa, where he will face altitude sickness and a gruelling schedule to reach the peak.

For more details about PAUL For Brain Recovery or to sponsor Paul on his Kilimanjaro trek visit here. To read more about the Hull heroes and local landmarks celebrated by KCOM’s vans click here.