HUNDREDS of people have taken to social media to congratulate war veteran and triple amputee Andy Reid after he was awarded an MBE.

Andy, from Rainford, was serving in the army in Afghanistan in 2009, when he stood on an improvised explosive device, losing both his legs and his right arm.

But rather than let his injuries take over his life, he turned his attentions to his recovery and on Friday awarded an MBE in the Queen's Birthday Honours list for voluntary service to veterans and to people with disabilities in St Helens.

After reading the news in the Star, the public swarmed to social media to congratulate him.

Lynn Jackson-Greener said: "Thoroughly deserved. Well done recognition for the sacrifices you made serving Queen and country. Congratulations"

Ben Tarvie added: "Very well deserved and I always had faith that he would one day get one. Such an inspiration to me as in 2009/10 I was going through a really difficult time but was fortunate to spend much time with Andy during his Land’s End to John O Groats challenge and this, unbeknownst to him at the time, of just being around him and seeing his fighting spirit, sheer grit and never give up attitude to walk again, helped me a great deal.

"If Andy could rebuild his life after such horrific injuries, then why can't I rebuild my life.

"He gave me the inner strength to begin doing just that and today I am in a much better place.

"Thank you Andy Reid from the bottom of my heart, I owe you so much gratitude. Really pleased for you. A true hero."

Helen Chisnall said: "Congratulations Andy, you so deserve this. Your courage and inspiration is amazing."

He gained even more praise from the nation on Twitter.

Phil Jones MBE MD of Brother, said: "Andy I’m so happy to read of you being awarded an MBE.

"You’ve inspired many through your story and experience.

"This is deserved recognition of all you have done and continue to do. Many many congratulations."

Former Dragon Duncan Bannatyne said: "Fantastic and well deserved mate"

The Soldiers' Charity said: "We are delighted to announce that our Ambassador, Andy Reid, has received an MBE on the birthday honours list. A massive congratulations to @andyreid2506 – you are not only a great Ambassador for The Soldiers’ Charity but an all-round great guy"

Saints said: "Everyone at the club and @CommunitySaints would like to pay congratulations to @andyreid2506 following the award of his MBE in the recent Queen's Birthday Honours list."

Totally Wicked_UK added: "If you need some #MondayMotivation then look no further...

"Almost 10 years ago, brand ambassador, @andyreid2506 lost three limbs whilst serving in Afghanistan and last weekend he received an MBE! What an inspiration!"

Pride of St Helens Community & Business Awards added: "Absolutely made up for 1st winner of @prideofsthelens @andyreid2506 on receiving his well deserved MBE. There is nobody who is epitome of overcoming adversity more than Andy. Legend & inspiration are words used freely but in Andy’s case they are understated. Well done Andy"

Speaking to the Star regarding the award, dad-of-two Andy Reid, 42, said: "It's quite exciting to be honest, I feel like I did when we found out my wife Claire was pregnant because I've not been able to tell anyone until we get the all clear tonight, but I've known about this for two weeks.

"So I'm excited to finally be able to let people know. I just feel so overwhelmed, shocked and honoured to be honest, 10 years ago when I was injured I never imagined this would happen, it was just about getting on with my life and doing what I could to help others.

"It's honestly amazing, it's not why I do what I do for the charity or helping disability charities, but it’s nice to get this recognition.

"My wife Claire opened up the letter because I was away at the time and we've just had to keep it to ourselves but we are very proud.

"I would just like to say a huge thank you to those who put me forward, it goes to show that anyone living with an injury or disability is not defined by it and can achieve anything they set their minds to.

"I look forward to being invited to London and will be taking Claire and the kids. We are really excited."

His book ‘Standing Tall’ telling the story of his life is available to buy at

standingtall.co.uk