Gordon Brown helps hero soldier

A disabled soldier who lost his legs in an explosion in Afghanistan was given a helping hand by prime minister Gordon Brown earlier this week.

Private Derek Derenalagi, who was injured after his Land Rover was blown up in 2007, tumbled on the steps of Downing Street on Monday, with Mr Brown rushing to help him back to his feet.

The soldier was meeting the prime minister along with Lawrence Dallaglio to promote a St George’s Day match between Wasps and Bath at Twickenham to raise funds for the Help for Heroes charity.

Private Derenalagi is hoping to compete for Great Britain at the 2012 Paralympics and said that he hasn’t let his injuries hold him back from living his life.

"I was injured doing something I loved. I’m alive and I’m grateful for that," he added.

Captain Johnny Arkell, who was injured on duty last year, has recovered to compete in the army’s UK divisional ski championships in the French Alps, the Swindon Advertiser reported.

Posted by Samantha Thompson