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Rifleman Steve was 19 when he was blown up by an insurgent’s blast in central Basra in 2007. His night-time rescue under fire by helicopter earned pilot Michelle Goodman the first Distinguished Flying Cross awarded to a woman.

Doctors gave him a one in five chance of survival when he suffered brain injuries that means he is unable to walk, talk and swallow.

But Steve’s spirit helped him rebuild his life, with rehabilitation from Help for Heroes. He has raised nearly £5,000 for the charity in a virtual London to Brighton ride on an adapted cycling machine.

Speaking with the aid of a computer, Steve, now 33, said: “Help for Heroes have helped me a great deal. So I wanted to do something for them, knowing it will help other veterans. They need our support more than ever.”

He lives at the Royal Star & Garter home in Surbiton, south-west London, receiving 24-hour care.

His mother Jessica said: “The care is above and beyond anything. I love to hear him laugh – a proper belly.”

ITV presenter and Help for Heroes patron Lorraine Kelly told Steve in a good luck video: “You are a total hero of course and I just want to thank you.”

BBC host Jeremy Vine rode a penny farthing for 60 miles around London parks to support Steve, telling him: “I wish you well with your journey, which is so inspiring.”

The Apprentice presenter Lord Sugar added: “I like to push myself when I’m cycling, but what you’re doing is incredible.”

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