A WEST Devon Royal Marine's determination after a 'freak' accident last year while on an Arctic training exercise has inspired his friends and family to do something to help.

Dom Lovett, 21, of Tavistock, was in Norway when he broke his neck after diving into a snow bank in February last year. He was instantly paralysed from the neck down.

Warrant officer Shane Lovett, Dom's father, who has been serving with the Royal Marines for 32 years, said those few seconds in Norway changed Dom's life immeasurably.

He said: 'From being a"do-er" he now has to rely on others to help him for the most simple of daily tasks. But it hasn't changed Dom's Royal Marine mentality.

'Now every obstacle is a challenge, a much bigger one, but he hunts for a way to overcome.

'Much of this zest for life comes from Dom himself, but he has been guided on his way by the Help for Heroes charity.'

Dom's enthusiasm and the support from Help for Heroes has encouraged everyone close to him to organise a special event.

'A Day 4 Dom' will see a whole host of activities on offer from face painting to a charity auction — but the day will be mainly focused on teams of ten competing in a modified game of softball.

The teams of men, women and children will play in matches at Tavistock's Red and Black Club on Saturday, May 23.

To enter a team will cost £50 and money raised from the competition and from other activities throughout the day, will go to help buy Dom a wheelchair access vehicle.

Dom has asked that a percentage of the money raised will go to Help for Heroes as a way of saying thank you for all the help and support he has received from the charity.

Shane added: 'Dom has been involved in many organisations and we want as many people as possible to take part in A Day for Dom.

'Already fellow servicemen from his unit have pledged to put up a softball team and teams from the other services will also take part. So why not pit yourself and your colleagues against them for this challenge?'

The softball teams need to have ten players and fancy dress is optional but encouraged. A modified game will be played on the day with the winning teams progressing through in rounds to a final.

Anyone not able to put a team together can offer their services or donate prizes for the raffle and charity auction.

Bouncy castles and an all-day barbecue will be in place at the club. The day will round off with a disco and karaoke.

For more information on 'A Day 4 Dom' call Shane on 07789874933.