Bikers raise £3,000 for veterans charity BRAVE with north Essex rideout

Former Royal Engineer soldier Chris Baker, 33, of Walford Way, Coggeshall, led the convoy from his home, through Finchingfield, Earls Colne and Halstead.

The procession stopped at Carver Barracks near Debden where it was joined by members of 101 Engineers Regiment.

Mr Baker said: “A massive thank-you must go to each and every one of you from the bottom of my heart for making it a phenomenal day.

“I was comatose most of Sunday, recovering, but woke up to read all your fantastic comments, messages and pictures. Outstanding.”

Mr Baker was injured by a roadside bomb in Iraq in 2005.

He suffered a hairline fracture in his spine which went undetected for three years.

He became unable to move his feet and developed lower abdomen, pelvis, bowel and bladder problems.

Mr Baker returned to England needing a wheelchair and he also suffered for years with depression.

With the help of the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association, he managed to secure a specially-adapted bungalow in Coggeshall.

Another charity, Holidays for Heroes Jersey, paid for motorcycle fan Chris to visit Jersey, where he took part in the Big Rideout motorcycle event.

He later bought a specially adapted Harley-Davidson trike and used it to set up Bikers Respect All Veterans Equally - BRAVE.

The charity gives financial support to underfunded military causes.

Si Avis, from 101 Engineer Regiment, who helped to organise the day, added: “The individuals who volunteered their time to collect and prepare the military vehicles and stands were absolutely outstanding.

“Their professional manner and approachable demeanour really added to the experience for the veterans and civilians who took part in the day.”