A BRAVE soldier who lost a leg in an explosion in Afghanistan was guest of honour at a tram-naming ceremony on the Metrolink line.

Fusilier Andy Barlow was permitted leave from hospital to formally unveil Metrolink's Lancashire Fusilier tram during a ceremony at the Bury station last Sunday.

The tram is a tribute to the soldiers who have served with the Fusiliers since its formation in 1688. Metrolink has paid £1,000 for metal plates featuring the tram's name which have been fixed onto the coaches .

Andy was a former member of the Lancashire Fusilier Association Band and Corps of Drums in Bury before joining the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers.

Last month, Andy's patrol found itself in an unmarked minefield, dating back to the Russian occupation of Afghanistan in the 1980s. As he rushed to the aid of a badly injured comrade last month, he stepped on one of the mines which blew off his left foot, causing him to lose his leg.

The 20-year-old, from Breightmet, Bolton, was flown back to the UK three days later and taken to Selly Oak Hospital in Birmingham where is continue to recover from his injuries.

Andy said he was honoured to have been asked to represent the regiment at the ceremony which was attended representatives from Metrolink, Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Executive, the Lancashire Fusilier Association, and the band and corps of drums which performed during the event.