An Army veteran who has dedicated his life to championing mental health has been selected to compete at the 2025 Invictus Games in Canada. 

Trevor Bygate, 49, of Hadleigh, found out he would be representing the UK team in Vancouver on what would have been his daughter's 30th birthday. 

The veteran lost his daughter, Chloe, in 2014 to suicide, and has since gone on to become a mental health advocate.

Mr Bygate was medically discharged from the army in 2019Mr Bygate was medically discharged from the army in 2019 (Image: Trevor Bygate)

"When we got the phone call to tell us we were selected, I was actually called on Chloe's 30th birthday," said Mr Bygate. 

"It was a really special thing. I am really passionate about what I do. 

"When she died, I was away in the USA.

"I never stop. The reason is when Chloe died I was not here, so I have got to be here for everyone else us."

READ MORE: Hadleigh Priory Hall to stop weddings later this year

Mr Bygate is one of 64 veterans from across the UK who will head to the Winter Games in Vancouver and Whistler next February.

Trevor met up with his teammates last weekMr Bygate met up with his teammates last week (Image: Trevor Bygate)

Although he doesn't know what he will be competing in yet, he chose sitting volleyball, rowing and biathlon as three possible options.

He met up with his teammates last week, which was described as an "amazing experience".

Mr Bygate said: "It's life-changing for some. We were all in the military together, so we've all got a common bond.

"Everybody that's part of these games has been through a trauma. It's one of those where as soon as you get together you get that bond straight away.

"Last week was absolutely amazing. People click straight away. You naturally want to look after each other and support each other through the games and sports. 

"It's amazing. It's life-changing."

The Invictus Games 2025 will take place in Canada between February 8 and February 16 next year.