Wounded Veteran chosen as ball carrier at MK Dons football match

A wounded veteran, who became Britain's strongest disabled man, has been chosen as ball carrier at an MK Dons football match.

The 31-year-old MK Dons fan, Mark Smith, who lost his right leg in a live firing exercise accident, will get the honour at the League 1 match against Bolton Wanderers on February 4.

The club is hosting members and staff of the military charity, Blesma, the Limbless Veterans as part of the club’ s Armed Forces Big Day.

“MK Dons have been very good to me with a season ticketing and parking” said Mark. “I’m proud to be the ball carrier for the club and on behalf of Blesma who have also been very good to me.”

Mark, 31, was serving with Grenadier Guards when he was injured back in 2011 during a live-firing exercise in Canada. Mark was hit seven times; six rounds to his right leg and one to his right shoulder. Bullets hit his femoral artery and three days later, he had to have his right leg amputated.

Mark has overcome his injuries to become Britain’s strongest disabled man and ranked 6th in the World event. Away from strongman competitions, Mark can regularly be seen in the clubs stands with his two sons.

Associate Director of  Fundraising, Barbara Warner said: “We are delighted to be a part of the MK Dons Armed Forces Big Day and, on behalf of everyone at Blesma, I would like to thank MK Dons for welcoming us to the ground.”

Serving members of the Armed Forces will also be able to attend the match for free! The offer is available to both team supporters. Any fans wishing to claim their free ticket, must provide proof of military ID when booking and collecting tickets. Armed Forces day tickets can be redeemed from MK Dons Box office at Stadium MK/ MK Dons Kiosk at centre:mk or by calling 0333 200 5343.