Helping our injured heroes

11:47am Monday 7th April 2008

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AS the bodies of Royal Marine Commandos John Thornton and David Marsh were flown into RAF Lyneham last week, people wept for the fallen heroes.

But what many did not know was that arriving with the war dead on Friday were three seriously injured soldiers who were caught up in the same explosion that killed their comrades.

With this in mind, serviceman from RAF Lyneham spent the weekend at Swindon's Brunel Centre collecting money for charity group Help for Heroes.

"It's the least we can do really. People here know about the tragic losses but not those left seriously injured and in need of extensive medical treatment." said Flight Sergeant Jim Hunter.

"We see these soldiers when they return and what they have suffered can be quite horrific."

The charity, founded by ex-serviceman Bryn Parry, raises money to support service personnel seriously injured while serving in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Its ultimate aim is to provide a swimming pool and other fitness equipment at Headley Court, a specialist military rehabilitation centre.

And people in Swindon made sure Help For Heroes was well on the way to achieving its goal.

"We have had many generous donations from people of all ages," said Chief Technician Geordie Clark.

"I must be honest, it surprised me to see so many young people donate but they have really done themselves proud."

"One young lad, couldn't have been older than 14, gave me a tenner and said he had two mates in Iraq at the moment," said fellow chief tech Woody Woodbridge.

The three men - who have completed 90 years of service between them - said knowing charities like Help For Heroes exist is a great comfort to them.

"There are a lot of seriously injured personnel that come into Lyneham that the public do not see,' said Geordie.

"And it's charities like this which helps to support them as they recover - that to me makes being here incredibly worthwhile."

Brunel Centre accounts manager Rosie Dance said the centre was desperate to do something to help servicemen away on tours of duty.

She said: "There is such a big military and ex-military population around here that people are happy to help support the troops.

"There was one old chap today looked like he didn't have two pennies to rub together but he still gave £25.

"We're happy to have been part of the fundraising effort and certainly plan to do it again in the future."

For more information about Help For Heroes visit www.helpforheroes.org.uk.