A SOLDIER who had both legs blown off by a bomb in Afghanistan is taking part in a cycle race across the US.

On Saturday, Staff Sergeant Steve Arnold, who lives in Colchester, set off as part of a team of eight wounded servicemen competing in the 3,051-mile race.

Sgt Arnold, who will be using a special hand-bike, said: “This is a huge challenge for me, but we’ve trained hard and I’m looking forward to it.

“We’ve had an amazing amount of support from the public and friends and family at home. It means a lot to know everyone is thinking of us.”

Sgt Arnold was carrying out search operations in Afghanistan when an IED exploded, taking both his legs, in April last year.

The team, supported by Help for Heroes, is made up of four double amputees – who will complete the race on hand-bikes – and four upright cyclists, as well as an 18-strong support crew, made up of mechanics, physios, medics, drivers and navigators.

The riders will cycle 3,051 miles, climb up to 170,000ft, through 12 states, with the aim of completing it in just eight days.

The team is led by Jonpaul Nevin, from Help for Heroes, who is lead strength and conditioning coach at Tedworth House Recovery Centre, Wiltshire.

He said: “This is going to be the toughest thing these guys have done since their injury. It’s a chance to give something back, but to show others there’s life after injury.”

The team is raising money for Help for Heroes. To donate £5, text RAAM to 70900.

Donations are also accepted via www.bmycharity.com/battleback raam2012