FIVE British soldiers who were injured in a bomb explosion in Afghanistan are to cycle more than 800 miles to raise money for charity.

The group, who will be led by York soldier Captain Pete Graham, 45, will undergo the gruelling 874-mile journey from Land’s End to John O’Groats for the British Limbless Ex-Serviceman’s Association, a group which supports soldiers injured in action.

The riders will start their epic journey on June 19 and plan to reach John O’Groats by early July.

This year, the team hopes to raise £10,000 in total for the charity.

Local businesses McKechnie and Gem Construction have also donated two bikes for the ride.

The five soldiers; Lance Corporal James Marsh, Corporal Jonny Wallace, Lance Corporal David Timmins, Corporal Rich McKinnon and Captain Wayne Owers, who formed part of a bomb disposal unit in Afghanistan, were involved in the explosion last July.

Cpl Wallace severely injured his leg, while L Cpl Timmins lost the use of his right eye and ear in the blast.

The others suffered minor injuries, while Capt Owers remained unhurt.

L Cpl Timmins and Capt Owers have recently received the Queen’s Gallantry Medal for their service in Afghanistan.

Captain Graham said: “I am sure that the experiences of Afghanistan that brought them together as a team in the most testing of conditions will mean that they will complete the ride and reach the target that we have set for raising money for BLESMA. I just hope I can keep up with them.”

On Saturday, to help raise sponsorship for the trip, the group visited Yates Wine Lodge, in York city centre, to collect money and sell charity wristbands.