A MAN from March knows just how devastating the war in Afghanistan can be after he lost his cousin, Corporal Lee Scott, last July.

But Jay Cooper is determined to use his own experience, much like the rest of his brave family have, to help others going through the death of a loved one serving in the forces.

After CPL Scott of The 2nd Royal Tank Regiment was killed by an explosion in the Helmand Province his mother, Denise Harris, founded charity Afghan Heroes which helps support families of fallen British troops.

Now Mr Cooper, 24 of March, is following suit and will take part in Peterborough’s Great Eastern Run on October 10 to raise more money for the charity his aunt formed.

“Lee was only 26 when he died,” said Mr Cooper.

“He left behind a wife and two small children. He was in the army on his 19th birthday and worked his way up to a tank commander at 25.

“He loved his job and his premature death deeply affected all of his friends and relatives.

“I feel strongly about supporting all the troops and their families and felt I wanted to do more to make people aware of how they can help.”

A 50-mile walk was completed by friends and family of Cpl Scott in August last year and the half-marathon is another attempt from the family to raise money for the charity.

He said: “I haven’t ran any kind of marathon before but I’m looking forward to the run.

“I feel that I’m doing something to help our troops and although I understand things are tough at the moment for many people, I hope that if anyone can spare a little money to help our brave soldiers and their families I’d be most grateful.”

To sponsor Jay visit: www.bmycharity.com/V2/Jaycooper

For more information on Afghan Heroes visit: www.afghanheroes.org.uk