‘Our 25th anniversary celebrations began earlier this year with the official unveiling of the Headway Milestone by Sgt Johnson Beharry in front of service users, carers, volunteers, staff and guests gathered at our premises in Kennington,” said Charlotte Carlisle from Headway Oxfordshire.

“It’s a beautiful piece of Portland stone, generously donated by local companies APS Masonry and Davis Stonemasonry — a fitting commemoration of the 25 years’ service provided by Headway Oxfordshire.”

Sgt Beharry is the youngest living recipient of the Victoria Cross, and suffered brain injury whilst on active duty in Iraq.

He is now a Special Ambassador for Headway, and, as such, endorsed the need for services provided by Headway Oxfordshire throughout the county.

Some 125 guests attended a special dinner the evening before the Milestone unveiling at Exeter College, sponsored by local solicitors. There Sgt Beharry spoke movingly of his own experiences of brain injury and his journey to recovery.

Headway Oxfordshire promotes understanding and awareness of brain injury, helping individuals and those around them come to terms with changes in their lives and assisting them to be as independent as possible.

Although affiliated to the national charity Headway UK, Headway Oxfordshire is an independent charity responsible for their own fundraising. The team provides information, advice and practical support throughout the county to adults with an Acquired Brain Injury and to their families and carers.

The charity provides a wide range of support services at their activity and rehabilitation centre in Kennington, including a full physio suite. During its 25th year of celebrations, Headway Oxfordshire is looking to the future. Recently the charity has been successful in securing funding from both the Big Lottery and Oxfordshire County Council, ensuring the continuation of their services throughout the county for the next few years. There are plans to redevelop the kitchen facilities within the Centre, to include a small café, thus providing further vocational and training opportunities. Several fundraising events are planned for the anniversary, including a London to Brighton Cycle on September 8 and a Charity Golf day at Frilford Heath Golf Club on September 12. Please contact charlotte@headway-oxford.org.uk for further information. If you would like to know more about Headway Oxfordshire or would like some support if you or someone you know has a brain injury visit www.headwayoxford.org.uk or telephone 01865 326263.