What Happened to Simon Weston? Who is Simon Weston?
by Vignesh L
Updated Aug 16, 2023
What Happened to Simon Weston?
Simon's journey of physical, spiritual, and mental recovery after his injuries led him to become involved in several successful ventures. One notable achievement was his work with 'The Weston Spirit', a charity for young people based in Liverpool. For his charitable contributions, Simon was honored with an OBE in the Queen's Birthday Honours in 1992.
He also received the Freedom of the City of Liverpool in 2002, recognizing his bravery and charity work in the region. Simon's impact extended beyond Liverpool, as he was named one of the top 100 Welsh Heroes in 2004 and was voted the Nation's Favorite Hero in the UK's Heroes Index in 2014.
His services as a motivational speaker were acknowledged with a Legend Award from Variety Children's Charity in November 2015. Simon's accomplishments were further recognized when he was awarded the Freedom of the City of London in December of the same year.
Simon's story has been widely covered, with five major BBC Television documentaries dedicated to his journey: Simon's War, Simon's Peace, Simon's Triumph, Simon's Return, and Simon's Journey. In addition, a BBC documentary followed the process of creating his portrait, which was nominated by viewers on the BBC One Show to be displayed in the National Portrait Gallery.
Simon also presented reports for ITN, including coverage of the 90th Anniversary of the end of the First World War. He returned to the Falkland Islands in late 2011 to film a documentary commemorating the 30th Anniversary of the Falklands War in 2012. Simon's autobiography, Walking Tall, became a best-seller, as did his book Going Back. He continued to write fiction books, such as Cause of Death and Phoenix.
His most recent publication, Moving On, was released in 2003 and allowed him to find closure regarding his experiences in the Falklands. Simon's literary contributions also extended to children's books and voiceovers for CBeebies. Alongside his successful career, Simon currently runs his own security business and serves as a director for Zappawoo, the parent company of Zap Escapes, which specializes in selling holidays to individuals with accessibility requirements. Simon is happily married to Lucy, and together they have three children. He takes immense pride in being a grandfather to young Zachary.
Who is Simon Weston?
Simon Weston CBE, a Welsh veteran of the British Army, is renowned for his charity work and remarkable recovery from severe burn injuries sustained during the Falklands War. Born on August 8, 1961, in Caerphilly, Weston was raised by his mother, Pauline, and adoptive father, "Lofty." His biological father served in the Royal Air Force alongside his mother.
Weston spent his early years in Singapore and at RAF Hospital Nocton Hall in Lincolnshire before returning to Nelson at around the age of six or seven. He has an older sister named Helen and three stepbrothers. At the age of 14, Weston received a police caution for being a passenger in a stolen car driven by his older friends.
In 1978, at his mother's insistence after getting into trouble, Weston joined the Welsh Guards at the age of 16. He served in various locations, including Berlin, Northern Ireland, and Kenya, before being deployed to the Falkland Islands.
Simon Weston Before Burns
Simon Weston is a British veteran and public speaker who became well-known for his remarkable story of survival and resilience after suffering severe burn injuries during the Falklands War between the United Kingdom and Argentina in 1982. Prior to his injuries, Simon Weston had a relatively ordinary life.
Before the Falklands War, Simon Weston served as a member of the Welsh Guards in the British Army. He was stationed on the British naval ship RFA Sir Galahad when it was attacked by Argentine aircraft during the conflict. The attack resulted in a devastating fire that caused severe burns to over 46% of Simon Weston's body.
Simon Weston Injuries
Simon Weston suffered severe burn injuries during the Falklands War in 1982. He was a member of the Welsh Guards and was aboard the British naval ship RFA Sir Galahad when it was attacked by Argentine aircraft in Bluff Cove on June 8, 1982.
The attack resulted in a catastrophic fire onboard the ship, causing extensive damage and leading to the loss of lives and injuries. Simon Weston's injuries were among the most severe. He suffered burns covering approximately 46% of his body, including his face.
The burns were extremely painful and required extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation. Simon underwent numerous surgeries to treat his injuries, including skin grafts and reconstructive procedures. He also faced significant emotional and psychological challenges as he coped with the physical changes and the trauma of the attack.
Despite the immense challenges, Simon Weston's determination, along with the support of his family, friends, medical professionals, and the wider community, helped him make remarkable progress in his recovery. He became an inspirational figure for his resilience, positive attitude, and ability to rebuild his life after such a devastating event.
Simon's journey from his initial injuries to his ongoing recovery and subsequent advocacy work has inspired many people and has contributed to raising awareness about the experiences of burn survivors and the importance of supporting veterans.
How Old is Simon Weston?
Simon Weston, the British veteran, and inspirational figure, is 62 years old. Born on August 8, 1961, in Caerphilly, Glamorgan, Wales, Weston's life has been marked by his service in the British Army as a member of the Welsh Guards and his remarkable journey of survival and resilience following severe burn injuries sustained during the Falklands War.
Over the years, he has become a symbol of strength and determination, using his experiences to raise awareness for veterans and burn survivors, and receiving recognition such as the Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) award for his contributions.
Simon Weston Children
Simon Weston and his wife Lucy are proud parents to three children: James, Stuart, and Caitlin. These individuals make up a significant part of Simon's personal life, demonstrating his role as a devoted father. While Simon Weston is widely recognized for his resilience and advocacy work following his severe burn injuries during the Falklands War, his family life adds a humanizing dimension to his story.
His commitment to his children and his journey of recovery have combined to shape his inspirational narrative, offering a glimpse into the multifaceted aspects of his identity beyond his public accomplishments.
What Happened to Simon Weston-FAQs
Simon Weston is known for his remarkable recovery from severe burn injuries sustained during the Falklands War and his subsequent charity work.
Simon Weston has received several awards, including an OBE (Order of the British Empire), the Freedom of the City of Liverpool, and the Legend Award from Variety Children's Charity.
"The Weston Spirit" is a charity founded by Simon Weston that focuses on helping young people in Liverpool.
Simon Weston's autobiography is called "Walking Tall."
Simon Weston has been involved in various ventures, including theater, business (running his own security company), and the hospitality industry.
Simon Weston has three children.