War hero tackles Big One challenge

Sgt Rick Clement, who suffered his terrible injuries six years ago serving with the Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment in Afghanistan, is taking on The Big One Abseil at Blackpool Pleasure Beach, to raise money for The Soldiers’ Charity.

The organisation is the national charity of the British Army.

Rick, 36, walked in public on his hi-tech prosthetic legs for the first time on Remembrance Day.

But in June he will be joining comrades from his former regiment for the 235ft descent from the famous Pleasure Beach attraction.

Rick, from Marton, will be undertaking the abseil with the help from a specially-modified climbing harness.

He said: “This is a pretty big challenge – all 235 feet of it.

“Supporting charities that supports the men and women of the armed forces is something close to my heart.

As the national charity of the British army, they look after all soldiers, veterans and their families in times of need.

“All the money me and the rest of the team raises will make a big difference those who might need their help at some point in their lives.”

Martin Rutledge, chief executive of The Soldiers’ Charity, said: “The Big One is not for the faint-hearted, as anyone who’s been to Blackpool can attest.

“We are immensely proud at the charity that Rick is taking on this challenge for us.

“As he has shown many times, he will not let his injuries hold him back, and he will be helped out by a great bunch of guys from his Regiment.

“The money raised by everyone taking part in the abseil will make a real difference to those soldiers and veterans who may need our help.”

Rick took his first steps on prosthetic legs – which cost around £50,000 each - 18 months ago

Since then, he has endured several gruelling sessions every week at the Specialist Mobility Rehabilitation Centre in Preston, battling through pain caused by his scar tissue.

The abseil takes place on June 6.