Day One of Invictus Games trials: injured service personnel try out in Sheffield for place on UK team

The first day of the UK Invictus Games trials have been getting underway in Sheffield, with injured service personnel taking part in a range of nine sports.

This week, around 500 wounded, injured, and sick veterans will compete, all looking to book a place in next year's games in The Netherlands.

The competition was created by Prince Harry five years ago, encouraging former soldiers to use sport to help them recover from their injuries.

This morning, wheelchair rugby heats started at the English Institute of Sport.

  • Lavinia Goddard, from Beverley, is taking part in four disciplines

Athletics events have been taking place at Sheffield Hallam University's dedicated campus.

Sarah Robinson, who works as an armourer with the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, was diagnosed with thyroid toxicosis. As well as suffering mental health issues, she lost a lot of weight. It has since been treated but she says she still suffers from high anxiety levels.

Her connection to the Invictus Games came through the Phoenix House Recovery Centre but "never thought for one moment" that she'd be selected to compete.

  • Sarah Robinson, from Hull, was competing in the shotput trials

Sheffield-based former Olympic heptathlete Jessica Ennis-Hill was in attendance to support competitors. She says sport can give focus to overcome adversity.