AN injured war veteran from Wolverley handcycled 100 miles to help raise thousands of pounds for good causes.

Richard Millner used only his upper body strength, due to an injury he sustained while serving in the RAF which resulted in him losing the use of his left leg, to power the handcycle from Thrapston in Northampton to Cromer in Norfolk.

He completed the challenge in eight hours and raised more than £5,000 – two and half times more than his original £2,000 target.

His fundraising efforts were boosted a donation of £1,000 by housebuilder Ben Bailey Homes – which was the largest contributor to his cause.

Richard’s teammate Dave Brazier, who accompanied him on the challenge, works as a contractor for Ben Bailey Homes.

A share of the money will go towards the Wolverley Memorial Project, of which Richard is chairman. It is hoping to raise £1.2million over the next three years to build a new memorial hall in the village.

The Soldiers, Airmen and Families Association (SSAFA) will also get a share of the donations, which is the UK’s oldest national military charity.

Richard said: “As an injured serviceman, I know that charities such as the SSAFA work very hard to support for British forces and their families. That’s why they got my vote.

“The contribution from Ben Bailey Homes made all the hours of heavy training feel justified and spurred me on to complete the 100 mile course in just over eight hours.

“Our initial target for donations was £2,000 but thanks to Ben Bailey Homes and our other generous sponsors, we managed to raise an amazing £5,140. Ben Bailey Homes’ donation was very significant and a huge motivator.”

Ben Bailey Homes’ sales and marketing director Mariana Knight said: “We were delighted to sponsor Richard as his handcycle challenge was so inspirational and he was raising money for such brilliant causes.

“We would like to congratulate him for completing his handcycle challenge in such an impressive time.”

Richard is still accepting sponsorship so if anyone would like to donate, just visit www.mydonate.bt.com or call him directly on 07532 423 571.