People lined the streets around Brompton on Saturday to cheer on a 300-strong calvacade of wounded soldiers and supporters who were taking part in the Help for Heroes Paris-to-London cycle ride.

The cyclists stopped off on their marathon 400-mile charity fundraiser for a poignant wreath-laying ceremony at the Great Lines war memorial.

Among them was former sapper Steve Craddock,55, from St Mary’s Island , who was taking part in his fifth ride for the charity and has so far raised more than £260,000.

Mr Craddock, who served in the Royal Engineers for 15 years, said the tragic death of soldier Lee Rigby had inspired more people to support the charity.

He added: “It is tragic what happened to Lee Rigby, so cruelly taken in the prime of his life. But events like this should prove a testament to his life and help to support his young family.”

Full report and pictures, see Friday’s Medway Messenger.