Stephen Menary, 15, was blinded and lost part of his left arm after he picked up a torch packed with explosives outside a Territorial Army base, in White City, west London in February.

More than 80 soldiers took part in the 10-mile charity march to help raise money towards the cost of caring for Stephen.

The troops from B Company of the 1st Battalion of the Parachute Regiment also presented the teenager with a plaque in recognition of his bravery.

30lb packs

Stephen, from East Acton, thanked the soldiers who strapped on 30lb packs for the march from Horse Guards Parade to Battersea Park.

Already �300,000 has been raised for the Cadet Stephen Menary Fund but the aim is to reach �500,000.

Stephen said: "It is very nice of the Paras and of everyone else who has helped out a lot."

Rehabilitation

The teenager is undergoing intensive rehabilitation at St Dunstan's Centre for blind ex-service personnel in Brighton.