Blind army veteran from Market Drayton nominated for Pride of Britain Award

Clive Jones is one of four people nominated for the ITV Fundraiser of the Year in the Midlands.

After being blinded at the age of just 26, Clive has gone on to raise money for good causes – including for Blind Veterans UK, the charity which helped him after he lost his sight.

The 42-year-old said: "Naturally I am pleased to be nominated. Obviously it is a good thing for myself, but it is also a good thing for the charities I support as it is good publicity for them.

"I have raised money for Shropshire Freemasonry, Blind Veterans – basically anyone who needs it.

"I am a proud Freemason and I get a lot of support from them.

"I organise curry nights, quizzes, Santa workshops, raffles, auctions. Before my back went, I also did a sponsored bike ride from London to Cardiff."

Clive was blinded in an unprovoked attack on his birthday in December 2000.

The vicious attack, while Clive was off-duty, left him totally blind with no perception of light.

With the support of the Blind Veterans UK charity, formerly known as St Dunstan's and the love and compassion of his wife, Stephanie, Clive managed to rebuild his life, regain his independence, and lead a full and active life.

Since leaving the army in 2003, he has also raised raised money for causes such as Severn Hospice, Hope House and the air ambulance.

He said: "I have always fundraised, even before I was blinded. I have just found more time to do it now.

"I am in the process of organising a few more bits and bobs."

The winner will be heading to the Daily Mirror Pride of Britain awards at the end of the month.