Durham driving instructor has launched new business following successful recovery from major operation

A driving instructor is back behind the wheel of a new business following a total hip replacement.

Chris Beard, from Ferry Hill, Durham, underwent the surgery in November and is now back working as a driving instructor after taking out a franchise with BSM.

Chris qualified as a driving instructor 12 years ago and joined BSM on Thursday, January 9^th, 2014 following his successful recovery from the operation.

The total hip replacement uses titanium and ceramic and is expected to last 20-25 years longer than the older procedure. Chris was also the second person to have a titanium disc replacement 6 years ago.

Before the operation Chris ran marathons and ultra marathons and will have to wait around 12 months before he can get back into his trainers. For now though, he is happy to be working again and building his new business.

Chris, 40, said: “I had to wait eight weeks after the operation before I could start driving again.

“My recovery coincided with me continuing my career as a driving instructor by starting a new franchise with BSM.

“I’m really happy to be back behind the wheel and looking forward to continuing my work and passing on my driving expertise to others.”

Prior to becoming a driving instructor, Chris suffered a parachute accident while serving in the army. It resulted in 18 months of hospital visits and rehabilitation at Headley Court in Leatherhead, which now helps injured servicemen returning from Afghanistan.