Hawking was such an inspiration

There have rightly been many tributes paid to Stephen Hawking, who died last week aged 76.

It wasn’t just his contribution to scientific discovery that was so impressive, but also what he did for so many disabled people.

He showed disabled people that they could look forward to – and achieve – so many things in life. This genius of a man gained the whole world’s respect.

This, in turn, helped to overturn the stigma around disability, which has been incredibly pervasive in societies around the world.

The effect of this stigma on the lives of disabled people can be profound, with many facing a lack of understanding of their needs, as well as barriers when trying to access employment, education and other services.

Stephen gave others hope that they, too, can have ambitious aims in life.

What a great man he was. He will be sadly missed.

RIP Stephen. Jenny Harden, Ruthin, Denbighshire