A STOURBRIDGE veteran has spoken of his pride after bagging a medals haul at the Invictus Games.

Former Royal Marine Gus Hurst, 29, returned home from America with three gold and three silver medals.

This year’s games were held in Orlando in May and also saw Hurst meet Prince Harry after he won golds in rowing and the men’s 4 x 50m swimming relay. Silvers came in 50m freestyle, discuss and shot put.

Hurst, who is set to marry fiancée Victoria Cox in September, suffered a serious ankle injury when representing the Navy in a snowboarding competition before infection, following surgery, led to further complications.

It meant Hurst was left with mobility issues and had to undergo major rehabilitation. It was during this time that he got involved with other sports that eventually led to selection for the games.

He said: “I’m pleased to have done well at the Games, it was a great experience. The event gives people the opportunity to compete in a sport that they may never have taken up before. It was also inspiring to be there with the other competitors as well. A friend of mine died three times but was there winning gold. It was great to see.”

On meeting Prince Harry, he added: “He is the most down to earth person you could meet. He’s humble and his commitment to the military and helping military people is very genuine.”