From The Horrors Of Syria To Start A New Life In Manchester

Surgeon reveals incredible story of how he journeyed to England

- Helena Vesty

The English Channel was once again the centre of another heartbreaking tragedy two weeks ago.

At least 27 people bound for the UK drowned near Calais after their boat sank in the deadliest crossing on record.

British and French leaders have vowed to renew efforts prevent crossings and crackdown on human trafficking, which Prime Minister Boris Johnson pinpointed as the reason for this horror. But their deaths has also led to anger, with thousands asking why people would risk their lives to make the dangerous crossing to the UK.

One man living in Greater Manchester, working in one of our hospitals, knows exactly why.

The fact is, you don't put your life on the line unless you're desperate, he says.

Dad-of-two Ayman Alshaek said: “The security forces can threaten you by capturing your family. Being in the UK is a protection from the Syrian regime because it's as far away as possible.

It's 2011. The sun rises on a warm day in Damascus.

Ayman has spent his childhood in his beloved country. Attending primary school, he dreamed of becoming a doctor, understanding from the beginning that he was called to come to the aid of those in need.