Dozens of bikers ride out to support veteran

Around 60 motorcyclists descended on Eastleigh today in support of Dave 'Digger' Gardner, a veteran who has battled through amputation, homelessness, and now an end-of-life diagnosis.

In a bid to honour Digger, his family, and the work he has done, bikers rallied together to show their support.

An emotional Digger was also awarded an Eastleigh Local Heroes Award for all of his work supporting veterans with PTSD. 

Organisers Graham Parsons, Clive Proctor and Delyth 'Taffy' Allen (Image: Alex Shute)

Veterans group Rolling Thunder CONEX hosted a ride out from West End to Hedge End.

The group started at the Master Builder pub in West End before riding to Upper Northam Road and The Close Junction in Hedge End for Digger.

Then, the group made their way to the war memorial in Eastleigh where they met with several Gurkhas and former Eastleigh Mayor Councillor Cynthia Garton.

They laid wreaths at the war memorial and took a knee for Queen Elizabeth II, then headed back to the Master Builder for a BBQ.

Attendees took a knee to remember the late Queen Elizabeth II. (Image: Alex Shute)

Digger said: "Today has been incredible. 

"I can't believe that they have given me [this award].

"I didn't expect this at all, it's something else. 

"That is my first award."

Organiser Graham Parsons said: "One of our veterans, Digger, does a lot for charity all over the UK but he is now in palliative care. 

"He a veteran, an amputee, and he's in his last time. 

"I thought that we'd give him a boost by getting bikes from all over the UK to come and ride in support of him.

Wreaths were laid to remember those who had been lost (Image: Alex Shute)

"It's been a real emotional day."

He added: "I think that there are not enough people that know about the veterans and what they are going through. 

"They do get some support but it's not enough, and people don't realise that these guys do a lot for charity. 

"It's important that I take this all over the country, not just London or Southampton, to build networks with local communities and get in contact with veterans."

Lead rider and co-ordinator Clive Proctor led the procession as they made their way from West End to Hedge End. 

The British Gurkhas were represented by Raman Sing Thapa and Kamal Bahadur Purja (Image: Alex Shute)

He said: "Today's ride is all about [Digger]. 

"Days like today are important because it brings awareness for veterans with PTSD and other issues. 

"And for the general public, who might have the same issues, they are all part of the same bubble. 

"It's making people aware that this is happening and it is rife. 

"Days like today give people something to look forward to, something to plan. It takes their mind off everything that's a problem."

Digger joined the Royal Artillery when he was 21 and served across the globe including Canada, Iraq, Kuwait and Germany.

But when a scorpion got caught in his boot during an incident in Canada around 2000, he was forced to retire after both legs were amputated.

Digger was homeless for a year and was living on the street, but now he lives in Hedge End with his wife.

The 56-year-old amputee dedicated his life to helping other veterans like himself and set up the company Tail End Charlie.

But in April he was hit with more bad news when sepsis developed.

Doctors have given him just three months to live.

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