GREGORY Distribution in North Tawton has pledged its support to 'Walking with the Wounded' by dedicating one of its vehicles to promote the forces charity and its activities nationwide.

The 44ft trailer has been specially liveried to draw attention to the extraordinary achievements of wounded servicemen and women, and the work of Walking with the Wounded.

The charity raises money to fund programmes and courses which equip wounded service personnel, leaving the armed forces with qualifications and skills required to find long-term employment.

The number of men and women who leave the forces with physical and mental injuries is tragically high, and these injuries often have a direct impact on their ability to find and sustain employment.

Andy Walker, managing director of Gregory Distribution, said: 'Walking With The Wounded stages extreme expeditions to illustrate the extraordinary determination and courage of the injured and their South Pole Allied Challenge, which was launched by Prince Harry in London last month, greatly impressed us.

'Having already promoted the fortunes of five Olympic athletes by trailer-side advertising, we know how effective this can be so we are delighted to contribute a trailer liveried with the Walking With The Wounded brand and the charity's important new message "Working With The Wounded" onto UK roads where it will be seen by hundreds of thousands of people.'

The South Pole Allied Challenge involves three teams of wounded servicemen and women embarking upon one of the most high profile expeditions of modern times, racing for 16 days over 335 kilometres in some of the world's harshest conditions. Temperatures can drop to -35.

Fergus Williams, director of operations at Walking With The Wounded said: 'We are delighted to be partnering with Gregory Distribution.

'Not only are we able to align our brand with a leading UK distribution company, it provides a unique opportunity for us to increase our profile, grow our supporter base and ultimately have a positive impact on our fundraising activity.'