AN ANDOVER soldier is encouraging 'big-hearted fundraisers' to take part in a walk to raise funds for the Royal British Legion. 

Ted Youd, who is serving as a Warrant Officer Class 1 in the Army, contracted Q-Fever while serving in Afghanistan. 

The 56-year-old begun feeling unwell, but over time he wasn't improving and was eventually diagnosed with Q-Fever in December 2012, which is caused by the bacteria Coxiella burnetii. This bacteria naturally infects some animals, such as goats, sheep, and cattle and can be transferred to humans. 

Ted, who is a father of two, was referred to the Royal British Legion's Battle Back Centre, which was founded in 2011 to support wounded and injured service personnel returning from Iraq and Afghanistan.

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He said: "At first, I thought I was just unwell, but over time I realised my state wasn’t improving; it was horrendous physically and mentally. I started isolating myself from my family and I just didn’t know how it would get better.

"I was eventually diagnosed with Q-Fever and referred to the Royal British Legion’s Battle Back Centre. It was through the centre that I realised there was light at the end of the tunnel.

"My visit to the Battle Back centre changed my life, both mentally and physically, and I will forever be thankful for the support I received. The RBL does amazing work for veterans and currently serving personnel, of which they can only do thanks to big-hearted fundraisers.”

As part of his thanks for the RBL, Ted is encouraging people to take part in this year's 3k Poppy Walk in Royal Victoria Country Park in, Southampton, on Saturday, November 11. 

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The event is open from 10am, and the walk will start at 11am, following a short collective moment of Remembrance beforehand.

The walk has an entry fee of £10, and children and dogs can attend free of charge.

All proceeds raised will go towards Royal British Legion’s support of veterans.

Julie Lax, Poppy Appeal manager in South Hampshire for the Royal British Legion said: “We’re delighted to encourage as many people as possible in Southampton and across Hampshire to get involved in our Poppy Walk.

"At Royal British Legion we’re determined never to forget the service and sacrifice of all veterans, of which there are more than 73,000 in Hampshire. All money raised from our events help those in the Armed Forces community with illness or injury, housing, employment and even with the rising cost-of-living. So, gather your friends and family and join in our Poppy Walk. It’s a great chance to get out and about in the fresh air, soak up the stunning countryside and show the Armed Forces community you care.”

To sign up or for further information visit rbl.org.uk/poppy-walks.