A BOMB disposal expert has told of the moment he and his colleagues were badly injured when an Improvised Explosive Device blew up in Afghanistan.

Lance Corporal James Marsh, speaking during a visit to Stamford Bridge, said his face was “shredded,” his chest was blown open, and he was left deaf in one ear, and suffered burns and shrapnel wounds requiring repeated surgery.

The 22-year-old was one of five soldiers caught up in the blast, who are now set to take part in a cycle ride from Land’s End to John O’Groats – organised by York soldier Captain Pete Graham – to raise funds for the British Limbless Ex-Serviceman’s Association. He came to East Yorkshire to receive three bicycles donated for the ride by local businesses, McKechnie Plastic Components of Stamford Bridge, and Gem Construction and House of James Ltd of York.

The soldiers will begin their 874-mile journey on June 19

• To donate to the riders, visit www.justgiving.com/Felix-End2End