Triple amputee to try again after record bid fails

Triple amputee Mark Ormrod MBE attempted to pull a large vehicle 100m over five minutes at an airfield near Epping.

A veteran who lost both legs and his right arm in Afghanistan has vowed to "try again" after a world record bid pulling a four-wheel drive vehicle did not go as planned.

Former Royal Marine Mark Ormrod MBE, from Plymouth, suffered the catastrophic injuries when he stood on a landmine in 2007.

He has since completed a series of challenges, including achieving the world record for the fastest triple amputee 1km swim.

Mr Ormrod said his first attempt to pull the large vehicle 100m (328ft) in five minutes had been a chance to "learn and grow".

Mark Ormrod MBE has completed a series of challenges to raise money for charity

Mr Ormrod added: "I think of all the other things I've done in my life where I've failed on the first attempt, readjusted, went again and then was successful.

"It's all part of the process, part of the journey - and I'll use it as an opportunity to learn and grow."

He said he also would continue to work toward his target of raising £1m for Reorg, which helps people from the armed forces and emergency services suffering from physical and psychological trauma.

Mr Ormrod said he got 53m (173ft) into the challenge, which he attempted while listening to the "Rocky" theme tune, when he encountered some "issues".

"I had to stop but couldn't get started again.

"There are a few things I should have changed with my kit and equipment.

Mark Ormrod said he always had plenty of support during his challenges

"My feet kept sliding on the tarmac...I kept sliding over...But just couldn't get the thing going again."

He added: "I'm absolutely going to try again because I know I can do this.

"I've done it in training, I've done it in practice. I just need to make some adjustments to the kit and equipment."

He said he hoped his next attempt would take place in Plymouth, adding: "I'll keep it local, there are plenty of places in Plymouth which would be great venues."

The next attempt would be "before Christmas", he added.

"So many people are so encouraging and supportive, they want to see us as a team, as a charity, succeed," he added.