A man who was paralysed from the waist down after being stabbed, can now walk again as a result of pioneering surgery.

Darak Fidyka from Bulgaria was stabbed a number of times in the back in 2010, resulting in his spinal nerves being completely severed.

However in a world first, Polish and UK surgeons transplanted special cells from his nose into his spinal cord. Known as OECs (olfactory ensheathing cells), these cells have an important role to play in the sense of smell. They enable nerve fibres to renew continually by acting as pathway cells.

The surgeons transplanted these cells into Mr Fidyka's spinal cord, where it appears they acted as a pathway, allowing the severed nerve fibres to reconnect.

Prior to this, Mr Fidyka had undergone intensive physiotherapy, but showed no signs of recovery. However, six months after his surgery, he took his first steps using parallel bars and leg braces.

It is now two years since his surgery and he can walk outside with the use of a walking frame and can even drive a car.

According to Prof Geoff Raisman of University College London, who led the UK team, this breakthrough could lead to a ‘historic change in the currently hopeless outlook for people disabled by spinal cord injury'.

Meanwhile, Dr Pawel Tabakow of Wroclaw University Hospital in Poland, who led the Polish team, said that it is ‘amazing' that something that was thought to be impossible ‘is becoming a reality'.

The scientists hope to treat another 10 patients over the coming years, although this will be dependent on funding.

Details of Mr Fidyka's story will be highlighted on BBC One's Panorama programme on Tuesday night (October 21).