Help on hand for a hero after Downing Street tumble

A British soldier who lost both legs in Afghanistan took a dramatic tumble on the steps of 10 Downing Street yesterday.

Prime Minister Gordon Brown helped Private Derek Derenalagi back up onto his prosthetic legs during the photocall for a charity rugby match.

Pte Derenalagi, of 2nd Battalion the Mercian Regiment, lost his legs when his Land Rover was blown up in Helmand province in July 2007.

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The Fijian-born soldier fell heavily as he exited the front door of Number 10. He appeared shaken but unhurt.

He was helped up by Mr Brown and rugby World Cup winner Lawrence Dallaglio and was soon laughing and joking as he continued with the photoshoot.

He also received a friendly pat on the back and some kind words from the PM.

The photocall was arranged to help publicise a special St George's Day rugby match to raise money for Help for Heroes.

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The organisers hope to raise a six-figure sum for the charity by donating at least 1 from every ticket sold when London Wasps take on Bath on Saturday April 24 at Twickenham.

Pte Derenalagi, 33, from Bushey, Hertfordshire, joined the British Army in 2000.

He has overcome his injuries to continue playing sport and uses a pair of "blades" to run.

A Downing Street spokesman declined to comment on the incident.

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The Prince of Wales also yesterday paid troops a morale-boosting visit as they prepared to deploy to Afghanistan.

The Prince shared a laugh and joke with some of the 2,000 troops taking part in exercises on Salisbury Plain, Wiltshire.