In 1984, then 18-year-old Geoff broke his neck at the age, leaving him paralysed.
Geoff has represented GB at international disabled sailing and in 2007 became the first disabled person to sail single-handed around GB.
In 2009 he sailed single-handed across the Atlantic ocean in his wheelchair, and later founded Wetwheels Foundation, providing opportunities for disabled people to access the ocean.
As well as his MBE, Geoff was also made deputy lieutenant of Hampshire and had the honour of carrying the Olympic torch in 2012.
Most Popular
-
1
Emergency crews battling to save someone’s life on Southsea seafront
-
2
People warned not to go to popular beach this weekend unless they have booking
-
3
Southsea seafront incident: Police update after man found 'unresponsive'
-
4
Police update on probe into death of ‘Wiggy’ Symes after fatal dog attack in Fareham
-
5
River Ems crisis: Westbourne villagers plead with Portsmouth Water to introduce a hosepipe ban
Geoff said: ‘Obviously it’s a great honour to be chosen, and particularly in my own city of Portsmouth.
‘I’m a disabled athlete so I understand the amount of effort that goes into competing in these elite games.
‘It’s a real honour I wasn’t expecting.
‘I’ve got the best leg: I’ll be coming round by hovercraft, bringing the torch to the city from Southampton.’