Iraq War veteran Lance Corporal Johnson Beharry was applauded by thousands of service personnel and their families as he carried the Olympic Torch through the UK's centre of remembrance, in Staffordshire, to mark Armed Forces Day.

The Caribbean-born hero was awarded the Victoria cross, the highest military honour, in 2004 for saving the lives of 30 comrades by charging down an ambush and has since overcome terrible wounds to continue his military career.

Around 6,000 people waving Union flags cheered as he carried the flame up the steps of the National Memorial Arboretum, pausing to salute his comrades.

Speaking afterwards, L/Cpl Beharry said: "It was very emotional (carrying the torch) because of the reason why I am here - to see the turnout is amazing and being here on Armed Forces Day as well.

"Armed Forces Day is important to see the general public is behind us and support us for what we do."

He also said he hoped to be going along to watch a few events at the Olympics.

As he carried the torch up to the memorial today, 30,000 poppies were dropped on the crowd by a paraglider.