Royal Marine Liam Brentley is just happy to be here in 2011.

When a Taliban bullet shattered part of his skull while he was serving in Helmand Province, his life hung in the balance.

The skill of countless people and his own fighting spirit tipped the scales in his favour, which is why he can share his hopes and dreams with Telegraph & Argus readers today.

Marine Brentley suffered appalling injuries, the effects of which will be with him forever.

But he is determined to fight and fight again to overcome them and lead as normal a life as possible.

He has accepted that he can no longer do the job of a Marine, but has set his sights on becoming a gym instructor and rugby coach.

As a former league player of some note, he understands the game and he will certainly cut an inspirational figure to any he coaches.

The 25-year-old is also looking forward to spending more time with his wife and their two young children – “enjoying being a good dad,” as he puts it.

Of course he still has a long way to go, with two major operations later this month to rebuild his skull, and more gruelling rehabilitation, for example.

But his is already a tale of triumph over adversity, and with his courage and the amazing support of all those around him, we are confident this exceptional young man will get there.