AN amputee completed a ten-mile race on crutches to raise money for a new running blade.

Helen Chapman, 46, of Saville Street, Walton, lost the lower part of her right leg in 1998 after being involved in a car crash.

Since then she has competed in a series of major events, including the London Marathon and the Amputee Games.

Helen’s NHS prosthetic limb is not designed for high-impact sports.

She has been fundraising for more than a year for a £5,500 running blade and has almost reached her goal after completing a ten-mile run in Buckinghamshire.

The fundraising drive was set up by the Arctic One Foundation to raise money for Helen and four other amputees.

Each received £700 from the event.

Helen said: “I had been on crutches for a few months before the run because I was having problems with my prosthetic leg.

“It wasn’t easy, but I did it. I face-planted a couple of times, but picked myself up and finished. It was a proud moment.”

Helen, who is £500 short of her goal, has been measured up for the blade and is set to receive it in March.

To donate, visit justgiving.com/helphelen-have-a-blade.