A WOMAN who had her leg amputated while serving in the armed forces has performed in the Paralympics closing ceremony.

Erica Vey, who served in the Royal Air Force (RAF) for eight years, injured her right leg while on a training flight at RAF Lyneham in 2007.

Five years on and following the amputation of her leg below the knee, the Letchworth GC resident performed in front of a packed Olympic Stadium on Sunday night for the culmination of London 2012.

The 31-year-old is a member of the Help for Heroes Band of Brothers, a support network for wounded, sick and injured service personnel, and was chosen to carry one of the many flames which lighted up the ceremony.

“When the opportunity arose to represent Help for Heroes at the Paralympic closing ceremony I knew it was a once in a lifetime event that should not be missed,” said Erica.

“After my accident I had to leave the RAF after eight years of service. At the time I didn’t know that a year down the line I would become an amputee, after all the surgery and treatments on my leg failed to make enough of an improvement. The NHS provided basic support in the beginning but it is Help for Heroes and Tedworth House that are truly making a difference for me.

“I feel very privileged to be able to represent all those who have been wounded or injured while serving. The chance to work alongside fellow veterans and serving personnel has been superb.”

Stevenage resident and veteran Barrie Newell, a former Corporal in the Royal Engineers, also played his part, appearing in the Human Endeavour section which saw double leg amputee Captain Luke Sinnott climb a flagpole and fly the Union Jack.