Injured soldier to be guest of honour at huge charity event

The 27-year-old, from Bessacarr, lost both his legs, suffered a broken back and brain damage when his Land Rover was blown up in a bomb blast in Helmand Province, Afghanistan, in 2006.

He is believed to be the most seriously injured member of the Armed Forces to survive the conflict.

On Saturday, January 21 Lance Bombardier Parkinson will be the special guest at a Burns Night celebration which aims to raise money for injured veterans.

It will include a march through Rotherham by the Band of the Scots Guards and a black tie gala at the Magna Centre which will run on into the night.

Organiser Nick Cragg said: “It is a real honour to have Ben as a special guest on the night. It is quite remarkable what he has achieved and he is a true inspiration.

“Not only will the day be a chance to celebrate Burns Night in an event that’s truly unique to Rotherham, it will also raise much-needed funds for our war heroes like Ben.”

The event will begin with a parade through Rotherham by the Band of the Scots Guards.

This will be followed by the gala dinner at Magna from 7pm onwards, which will also feature the Scots Guards marching band, pipes and drums.

Gary Verity, chief executive of Welcome to Yorkshire, said: “This is set to be terrific for Rotherham and for Yorkshire. We are expecting thousands of visitors to pour in for these special celebrations which are being held for the first time in the town.

“We are confident it will be a spectacular day as well as raising vital funds for worthy causes.”

All cash raised will be shared between charities Phase Worldwide and The Scots Guards Colonel’s Fund.

Jeff Wharfe from Rotherham-based Phase Worldwide said: “We are really thrilled to be bringing that one of the world’s best marching bands to Rotherham and that we are able to support two such worthwhile charities.

“Phase works in remote areas of the Himalayas including Gorka, the birthplace of the fearless Ghurka soldiers.”

For more information call 07774 223228.