Schoolboys join paraplegic Major as he walks to help fellow heroes

A paraplegic soldier today entered his fourth day of the London marathon, supported by pupils from his former school.

Major Phil Packer, 36, of the Royal Military Police, was injured in Basra as he took cover in a rocket attack. A year ago doctors told him he would never walk again but he is currently covering two miles of the marathon course every day in a bid to raise £1 million for Help for Heroes.

Pupils from Eltham College, south-east London, and his former sports teacher Adrian Thomas joined him today, as well as his company sergeant major Kat Gallagher, who was with him when he was injured.

Major Packer said: "I ache but I am determined to do this. Seeing people coming out to support me is really inspiring. I do have a special bond with my sergeant major as she did not leave my side when I was injured. It is a very special day."