Brain damaged climber walks after 21 years

These small steps prove mountaineer Andrew Renton has risen to the greatest challenge of his life.

The 48-year-old has been in a wheelchair since a horrific 100ft plunge in 1994.

The accident left him in a coma for three months with devastating head injuries – and his parents were asked if they wanted to switch off his life support.

But Andrew won his fight for life and 21 years on he has won the fight to get back on his feet.

This week, he took his first steps as his overjoyed dad cheered him on.

Andrew said: “It feels very good. It’s always been my goal to walk again. Hopefully I will be able to move without the frame in the future.”

Andrew was walking in Glen Coe, Scotland, aged 27 when he fell down a rockface.

First steps: Andrew Renton walking for the first time in 21 years

His dad Allistair, 74, recalled the moment medics asked him about switching off his life support.

He said: “We talked around his bed and the next day he began breathing by himself.

"We’re convinced he subconsciously knew but he was always a fighter.”

Andrew, of Bramford, Suffolk, had limited movement and could not speak for a long time.

He said: “When I came round I could only move one finger on my left hand.”

Since the accident he has worked tirelessly to recover and this year he focused on learning to walk again.

Allistair said: “I’m so proud to see him do that. He is a determined chap.”

Chief executive Helen Fairweather said: “It was wonderful to see Andrew take those steps. He has always wanted to and it gives real hope to others.”