THE countdown is on to the first major event to raise money for a Colchester soldier whose legs were blown off in Afghanistan.

Sapper Ashley-James Hall, 20, was injured as he searched for roadside bombs in the war-torn Helmand province.

The former St Benedict’s College, Colchester, pupil lost his legs as well as suffering retina damage, lower spinal injuries and a severely fractured pelvis. He also lost the tips of three fingers and his thumb.

He will return to his family’s home in Stratford St Mary when he is discharged from hospital.

Since he was injured last month, family, friends and many strangers have rallied together to support the young soldier.

His former classmates have organised a sponsored walk, to take place at the school in Norman Way, on September 12.

Anyone can take part in the walk, but entrants are asked to gather sponsorship or pay an entrance fee. There will also be stalls, a raffle and refreshments on the day.

Ashley’s family hope he may be well enough to visit home and stop by the event.

Volunteers are needed to marshall the sponsored walk and run the stalls.

Hannah Sadler, who is helping set up the event, hopes that businesses in the town will get on board. “We already have a Northampton Saints rugby shirt signed by the team up for grabs, kindly sorted out by my brother Charlie,” she said.

“Letters will soon be going to local businesses to ask for raffle donations from them too.”

The event will take place at the front field between 1.30pm and 6pm, and all are welcome.

For more information, or to take part in the event, visit www.facebook.com and search for Fundraising for Ashley!

All money raised will be put into a trust fund for Ashley, for when he is released from hospital.