Logan Thomson (5) is doing a sponsored walk across the Forth Road Bridge at noon to support the charity which helped his uncle, ex-serviceman Stuart Proudfoot, after he was critically injured in Iraq.

Stuart, who lives in Templehall, had been a member of the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards for seven-and-a-half years.

He served as a tank crew man but was discharged from the army on medical grounds after he was seriously hurt when his vehicle was struck by a roadside bomb during a routine patrol in January 2006.

The same incident claimed the life of his friend, Corporal Gordon Pritchard.

Stuart is the face of this year's Poppy Appeal and it was after Logan saw him on television that the Dunnikier Primary pupil decided to raise money for the charity.

Logan's mum, Kelly (26), told The Press: "He saw Stuart on TV so I explained to him what the appeal was and how it helped Stuart. He then wanted to do something himself to raise money for the charity.

"He didn't have any encouragement from anyone. Whenever we see a poppy in a shop he recognises it and points out it's the reason why he is doing his walk.

"It has been two weeks and already we have raised £300 through sponsor forms in local shops and donations from friends and family. His dad, Ross, and I are very proud of him."

Stuart (24) suffered two broken cheekbones and shattered his lower jaw bone in the attack.

He had a lot of breathing difficulties afterwards and underwent a number of operations.

His former army boss had been in touch with Poppyscotland and suggested Stuart would be ideal to represent this year's appeal.

Stuart said: "I wanted to do my bit to help because Poppyscotland supports ex-servicemen for the rest of their lives.

''It helped me to get a house and I am looking to start my own taxi business and it helps with small business loans. The charity has been amazing."

Stuart added: "I will be walking across the bridge with Logan - I am very proud of him."

Logan, who is looking forward to Saturday, added: "I just wanted to get money to get him better."

Click on the audio link above to listen to interviews with some of the
Scottish soldiers who had an emotional homecoming on Saturday in association with Garrison FM