A FORMER Marine from Crewe who battled depression after an injury cut short his military career has spoken how his life was ‘rescued’ by motorsport.

Private Matt Noakes was a mobilised Army reservist for six years following a career in the Marines.

Having been deployed to Afghanistan in a reconnaissance infantry role, he took a shoulder injury under fire in Helmand Province.

However, his recovery was met with complications and after several operations he was medically discharged from the Army.

Matt said: “Having to spend time away from soldiering and the job I loved had been quite a challenge.

“Boredom played an evil part of being injured and that lead to all sorts of problems with my mind.”

After being discharged from the Army, Matt spiralled into depression and was diagnosed with PTSD.

His fortunes changed in 2012 when he began working with Mission Motorsport, a charity that aids in the recovery and rehabilitation of those affected by military operations by providing opportunities through motorsport.

“I was in a very dark place, I wasn't a shadow of my former self. I had lost all my confidence and enthusiasm for life," Matt said.

“As things were spiralling out of control Mission Motorsport came to the rescue.

“As a massive all round petrolhead, the opportunity to work with Mission Motorsport has opened up avenues upon avenues for me to participate whilst injured along with opportunities for employment."

Matt began working at a number of events as part of the mechanical support crew, including the Britcar 24-hour race, and has driven race cars at the Nürburgring and Spa.

Matt has also worked for Aston Martin Racing as pit crew for the World Endurance Championships, including the prestigious Le Mans 24hr race

He recently became Mission Motorsport’s latest racing driver too, completing his first race at Oulton Park.

It seems the dark days are now firmly behind the former soldier.

He said: “I owe a lot to Mission Motorsport, possibly my life, I just hope I can do them proud and show what we Mission men and women are made of, and give the charity the recognition it deserves.”