ANDY Reid hopes his forthcoming autobiography will help and inspire others around the world who have lost limbs or suffered devastating injuries.

The former soldier, a triple amputee after surviving an IED blast in Afghanistan more than three years ago, is expected to see his first copy of the hard back book this week.

It charts his childhood, career in the forces, and his recovery from the explosion in which he lost his lower legs and right arm.

Andy believes it offers an insight into how his early life shaped the characteristics that helped him confront his injuries.

Speaking to the Star, Andy, 36, who lives in Windle, said: “Claire posted a picture of me cradling our son William on a Facebook page that is promoting the book – and it was ‘liked’ by more than 1,000 people.

“Messages came from around the world – with people saying they had lost limbs and that my story has inspired them.

“If reading the book helps people to move forward that will be great.

He added: “At times it was very difficult to write as I was going over stuff that was traumatic. I would sit for a few hours and tap my thoughts into my iPad.

“It brought it all back. There are memories about when were in Afghanistan and a couple of guys got killed...and you think back about the decisions you made then. They were very difficult times.

“People will learn how long it takes me to get ready in a morning, little things I can and can’t do. They will be shocked at some of the things you go through.”

Standing Tall is released in February and is published by John Blake at £16.99. The launch is at a black-tie dinner at Langtree Park on Friday, February 1.

It will be stocked nationwide by supermarket chain Asda.

Andy will be signing copies at Asda St Helens on Monday, February 4 between 10am and 4pm and on Saturday, February 9.

He will also be available ahead of Saints’ match versus Huddersfield on Feb 2 and at Tyrers between noon and 2pm on Wednesday, February 6.