YESTERDAY saw the launch of Help for Heroes’ Hero Ride 2014, which will see cyclists from across the country ride through Gwent on their way to London.

TV doctor Dr Dawn Harper, Welsh singer-songwriter and X Factor contestant Nick Pendry joined injured veteran Matt Lum to launch the Welsh Hero Ride at Cardiff Castle yesterday morning.

The Welsh Hero Ride, named the Dragon Dash, will take place on the 5-8 June 2014 with cyclists riding from Cardiff to London via Gwent to join up with cyclists from all over the country for the grand finale down The Mall in Central London.

The ride hopes to raise £1.5 million for Help for Heroes and will help the charity continue to deliver direct support to service personnel and veterans who have suffered life-changing injuries and illnesses.

Matt Lum is a member of the Help for Heroes Band of Brothers and is joining the Hero Ride to cycle alongside fundraisers.

Mr Lum, a veteran who suffered severe injury while on exercise, served eight years in the Royal Engineers said: “When I was given the opportunity to take part in the Hero Ride I knew I had to do it. It means a great deal to me to be able to give something back to this amazing charity without which I honestly don’t know where I would be today.”

The route through Gwent is yet to be finalised and will be announced at a later date.

To sign up to Hero Ride 2014 or donate go to www.helpforheroes.org.uk