TV comedians Alex Brooker and Francesca Martinez will open and close Naidex National, the UK’s largest disability, homecare and rehabilitation event, on 29 and 1 May at the NEC, Birmingham.
Known for his award-winning witty comedy panel show, The Last Leg, which he presents alongside Adam Hills and Josh Widdicombe, Brooker, who wears a prosthetic leg, will open the show and share his journey since bursting onto our screens when he reported on the Paralympics on 29 April at 12.15pm.
Having started out on hit children’s TV show Grange Hill, Martinez has since made many TV appearances, including Russell Howard’s Good News, The Jonathan Ross Show and Loose Women. Martinez, who is affected by Cerebral Palsy and is currently touring, will perform her latest comedy routine, closing the show on 1 May.
Matthew Tingey, event director for Naidex National, said: “We’re thrilled to have Alex and Francesca on board. Personally, I’m a huge fan of theirs and think they’re a great addition to what is shaping up to be an exciting show in its fortieth anniversary.
This year, we also have Claire Lomas speaking, who walked the London Marathon in an exoskeleton and a flight simulator designed for people with disabilities from Aerobility. Not forgetting a huge range of experts and products and services all under one roof to help people achieve more independence.”
Dancing their way to Naidex, Strictly Wheels, aka Paula Moulton and Gary Lyness, will be performing on 29 April. Moulton and Lyness made their début on Britain’s Got Talent to an awed nation. They are now the UK’s first and only top class Latin Wheelchair Dance-sport couple.
Impey Showers will also welcome Gary Clarke, Britain’s strongest disabled man, onto their stand on day one. Gary will perform two incredible feats on the stand while seated in the redesigned Impey SlimFold shower seat, capable of bearing weight of up to 47 stone.
Taking place at the NEC Birmingham from 29 April to 1 May, the UK’s largest independent living event features a free conference for health and social care and an exhibition. Some of the biggest names in the industry will be on hand to offer expertise and guidance on all aspects of independent living. Over 10,000 visitors are expected over the three days of Naidex.
Naidex National partners for 2014 include the British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA), the College of Occupational Therapists (COT), the Disabled Living Foundation (DLF), the National Register of Access Consultants (NRAC), the Centre for Accessible Environments (CAE) and Foundations. Additionally, Able Magazine will be Official Media Partners of the event.
To see the full show programme and register for your complimentary ticket please go to www.naidex.co.uk. To discuss exhibition space and sponsorship opportunities at Naidex National, please contact the team on 0203 033 2273 or naidex@i2ieventsgroup.com.