A SOLDIER seriously wounded in Iraq is taking on the 125-mile challenge of the Devizes to Westminster Canoe Race.

Major David Bradley was rescuing British troops near Basra in 2004 when he was hit by two rocket-propelled grenades.

He was given a five per cent chance of survival, due to a serious chest injury. Thanks to the expert care at the field hospital, he survived but lost the sight in his right eye, part of his right shoulder and part of his right hand.

Despite these disabilities, Major Bradley, who lives in Tidworth, is determined to complete the race and raise money for Help for Heroes.

The charity provides practical support to service personnel wounded in Iraq and Afghanistan. Its first aim is to raise £6 million to build a swimming pool and gym complex at Headley Court, the tri-service rehabilitation centre in Surrey where Major Bradley received help.

Among his support crew is Devizes-based Major Gary Graggs of the Army Education Service. Major Craggs said: "It's phenomenal what David has achieved. The injuries he suffered would have stopped many people going back to work.

"It's a testimony to his courage and determination. The easy thing to do would be to put £20 in a collection box but we want to encourage people to get well and lead an active life."

Major Bradley will team up with ex-serviceman Steve Vinall to paddle the 125 miles to London. They expect to leave Devizes Wharf at about 4pm on Easter Saturday and reach Westminster Pier around 8pm next day.

Also in the four-man support crew is Sergeant Shane Willoughby who, while serving in Iraq last January, took a direct hit from a rocket as he slept. He received multiple injuries along his right side and lost his right eye.

While the canoeists are doing their best on the water, Dauntsey's School A-level students Zoe Hamersley and Chris Wilson will be cycling the 125 miles.

Zoe is raising sponsorship to support her voluntary work overseas through Raleigh International and Chris will be backing Help for Heroes.

n A story in last week's Gazete suggested the Scouts who first canoed to Westminster - Pete Brown, Brian Smith, Brian Walters and Laurie Jones - had died. We now understand they are in good health and we apologise for any distress.