SHAUN Jones often dreams of the day when he stands opposite a judge in a courtroom battle.

Becoming a lawyer is a big ask for someone who suffered an acquired brain injury (ABI) just two years ago.

But the 37-year-old has begun that difficult journey – and he owes a giant leap to a remarkable unit in Ledbury.

Mr Jones has overcome the bottle and a resulting brain injury to complete a City and Guilds qualification.

It’s a huge achievement for someone who recently struggled to walk, let alone understand the workings of criminal law.

The Bristolian owes his transformation to the littleknown Ledbury ABI unit care home in Market Street.

The unit is run by Shaw Healthcare and provides care and rehabilitation to people from across the UK with an ABI.

Mr Jones was transferred to Ledbury in December 2009 but doesn’t remember how he suffered the ABI in his home city.

Health issues meant he left school without any qualifications but it’s clear he is making up for lost time in style.

The two-part iLex course took 15 months to complete and includes a grounding in murder, burglary and criminal damage.

“The course is quite hard and I studied it in 2000 when I was still in Bristol but I couldn’t pass the exam.” said Mr Jones.

“I liked to drink before I had the brain injury and I didn’t leave school with good exam results.

“I had to spend a lot of time in hospital and fell back quite badly and never achieved results during my academic years.”

Mr Jones needed a zimmer frame to walk when he arrived at Ledbury but is now mobile and heading towards independence.

He is back on his feet thanks to physiotherapy and says the centre has been “absolutely brilliant”

to him.

Adam Moreton, deputy unit manager, said Shaun’s transformation was down to motivation and having the right supervision.

“It’s a big achievement for Shaun and it’s the first time I’ve know anyone with an ABI to pass a law exam,” said Mr Moreton.

The next step involves a fieldtrip to a case at Hereford Crown Court and finding some work experience with a law firm or solicitor. Anyone who can help can call Mr Moreton or Lorraine Cooling on 01531 637618.