A GROUP of 30 veterans from the UK and the US are taking part of a 120-mile cycling challenge, named SR UK, that passed through Marlborough, Bradford-on-Avon and Malmesbury this week.

Members of Blesma, The Limbless Veterans and The Wounded Warrior Project will cycle on average 30 miles per day over five days, starting and ending in different places. The riders have already passed through Swindon, Marlborough, Burnham-on-Sea, Wells, Malmesbury, Bradford-on-Avon and are now setting off through Longleat Estate and Salisbury. On the final day riders will pass through Bushey Park in London and finish the week at The Royal Hospital in Chelsea.

Barry Le Grys MBE, chief executive of Blesma, said: “SR UK is a highlight in the Blesma activities programme. It is a tough cycle over five days, through two counties and London, to end at The Royal Hospital, Chelsea. We really enjoy hosting the injured veterans from the US. A unique fellowship is built. The ride is aimed at promoting the subjective, psychological and social well-being of the injured. For the participants it is a moving experience, even life-changing. It is a memorable journey for families and volunteers too and we appreciate their support greatly.”

Blesma, The Limbless Veterans is the national charity for all limbless servicemen and women, their widows and dependants. It was formed in the years following the First World War and became a national charity in 1932.