A hero serviceman who lost both his legs after being struck by a roadside bomb in Afghanistan will take to the pitch at West Ham United's Upton Park for a charity football tournament to raise money for amputee children around the world.

Sergeant Duncan Slater signed as an ambassador for Elizabeth's Legacy of Hope after having both his legs amputated when an improvised explosive device (IED) blew up his vehicle while on patrol in Babaji, Helmand province, Afghanistan in July 2009.

The charity - founded by Victoria Bacon, wife of South Norfolk MP Richard Bacon - was started to help children in developing countries who have lost limbs due to illness, malnutrition, accidents and violence.

Sgt Slater said: 'I know how frustrating it is not to be able to walk and get from A to B.

'I can't reverse what's happened to me. If I can do something with this charity, it may help me feel a bit better about things.'

Fans are being invited to compete for the Hope Cup at the East London football ground on Sunday, May 25.

Players will get the full Premier League experience, from making pre-match preparations in the dressing room to walking out of the tunnel and playing on the pitch with Sgt Slater.

Those taking part are asked to raise money that will go directly towards helping vulnerable amputee children.

Mrs Bacon said: 'West Ham United is one of England's most famous clubs and to play on the pitch will be a dream come true for many people.

'The money players raise goes directly to the vital work the charity does in giving hope to disadvantaged child amputees across the world.'

Are doing something for charity? Email newsdesk@archant.co.uk