A WAR photographer who lost three limbs stepping on an IED in Afghanistan made an emotional return to the country to highlight the plight of people living there. The pictures QE patient Giles Duley captured during his brave pilgrimage were displayed in an exhibition at the House of Commons this week to raise awareness on the effects of inhumane weapons. Giles said: “For me documentary photography has always come with great responsibility. Not just to tell the story honestly and with empathy, but also to make sure the right people hear it. When you photograph somebody who is in pain or discomfort, they trust you to make sure the images will act as their advocate. “Of all the stories I’ve documented, the recent work on civilian casualties in Afghanistan and the impact of landmines has felt the most important. Many of those I photographed said to me, "When you get home, show your ministers what is happening here". That has always been my ultimate goal." In 2011, Giles travelled to Afghanistan to document the life of soldiers there. Whilst on dawn patrol with the US Army, he stepped on a landmine, losing his left arm and both legs. “I felt a definite click under my right foot, there was a searing heat and a flash of the brightest white light you can imagine. “Everything seemed to happen in slow-motion. “The first thing I saw was my left arm; three of my fingers were just dangling white bones, the remaining skin was smouldering. “I couldn’t see my feet, couldn’t sit up and thought I was paralysed. But I was conscious and knew my brain was OK. My right hand seemed to be in one piece, so I remember thinking I could still work as a photographer.” It was when the tourniquets were applied to his wounds that Giles first became aware of the pain that has now become a constant companion. Two days later he was flown back to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham where he spent 45 days in intensive care before being admitted to Headley Court, the Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre. "There was a concern that I might not cope with the military regime at Headley. The guys follow orders and can be disciplined if they don't do what's expected of them. But I wanted to be pushed hard. I had set myself a goal of walking again and I knew this could get me back on my feet quicker than any other programme. In February, Giles achieved his dream when he returned to Afghanistan for Channel 4 documentary ‘Walking Wounded: Return to the Frontline’, illustrating the legacy of landmines and other explosive weapons on Afghan people. The recent House of Commons exhibition shows the remarkable images Giles captured during breaks from filming. “This is the first time I’ve really felt like I’ve fully completed my task as a photographer. I hope those that have trusted me with their stories will feel the same," he said. His recovery and return to the frontline have been speedy thanks to donations from friends and family to the Giles Duley Fund, a protected fund set up within the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham Charity to fund his lifelong care. The money will also enable Giles to continue his documentary work. To donate, please visit www.gilesduley.org