Croucher in calendar

AFGHANISTAN hero Matt Croucher has joined forces with some of England's top rugby players for a charity calender.

George Cross winner Croucher has teamed up with Ugo Monye and Delon Armitage for the military fundraiser.

They will launch the calendar this week at Sandhurst military academy hoping to raise £100,000 for Help For Heroes and Combat Stress.

The Royal Marine reservist was awarded the gallantry medal during his deployment to Helmand in 2008.

He threw himself on top of a live grenade while on patrol in Sangin saving the lives of his comrades and only suffered a nosebleed.

Lance Corporal Matt, who now works for private security firm Pinnacle, said: "I have had many friends who have been hurt while in Afghanistan and need help on their return home.

"I live above the flight path for injured troops flying back to the military hospital at Selly Oak in Birmingham so it's very poignant for me.

"Nearly everyone in the Armed Forces will know someone who has been affected so it's important we raise as much money which can help in their recovery."

The idea was conceived by sportsman Ryan Lamb who spoke to his photographer dad Alan who got the idea off the ground.

Ryan, 23, who plays for London Irish, said: "I have always been in awe of the commitment of our Armed Forces and was surprised at the lack of support available to them should they become injured in the course of their duties.

"Having sacrificed so much for their country I think it's only fitting that they're looked after on their return from duty"

Rugby World Cup winner Mike Catt, 37, who currently plays for London Irish, said: "When you hear of the injuries and pain these heroes go through in a war zone it puts everything else into perspective.

"Those knocks and bruises you feel on a Sunday morning after a game pale into insignificance.

"If my club let me go I would visit the troops in Afghanistan I know it's dangerous but I'd love to be part of a morale boosting trip."

Current England and Harlequins player Ugo Monye, 26, said: "As soon as I heard about the idea I wanted to back the cause.

"I've got friends out in Afghanistan so if there's anything I can do to help I'll do it."

The calendar will be available to buy online at www.rugbyforheroes.org.uk, through the Help for Heroes website and the RFU will stock the calendar in the two stores at Twickenham stadium and on their online store.

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