A SOLDIER who lost both legs in Afghanistan was a special guest at a First World War commemoration in Dartmouth. There was not a spare seat to be had when local hero Cayle Royce sat down to lunch with the over 60s on the same day that Britain entered the conflict 100 years earlier. And members made sure present-day servicemen and women were not forgotten either – with a raffle in aid of the charity Help for Heroes. Trooper Royce, from Dartmouth, said it was great honour to be able to support the local community in remembering the sacrifices that were made during the First World War, which he described as 'staggering'. He added that he felt very lucky compared to many service personnel who were returning home from battles being fought today needing a high level of support and care due to life-changing injuries. The 27-year-old army sharpshooter, from the Light Dragons, was injured by an improvised explosive device on his first tour of duty in Helmand province in 2012. For 48 days he was in an induced coma while medics battled to save his life. On coming to, Trooper Royce said he believed the extent of his injuries had been an hallucination, and so was unaware for four days that he had lost both legs. But after overcoming the trauma, the fitness enthusiast willed himself to recover sufficiently so that earlier this year he was able to take part in a challenge to row across the Atlantic ocean. On Monday, he joined pensioners and guests at a special lunch in the Old Market community cafe, which was decorated with Union Flags, wartime memorabilia and knitted poppies made by members. A dove of peace knitted by member Dorrien Brook was also on display. Among those present was former mayor Cllr Paul Allen and two trustees of the over 60s rest room, Daphne Scorer and Harold Lloyd. Secretary Jackie Squire said generous business and individuals had donated more than 80 prizes for the draw, which it was hoped would raise over £500 for the forces charity. 'We have never asked for prizes from the local community in the 55 years we have been going and have been overwhelmed at the response,' she said. Among them was a specially made bag from the Canvas Factory in Help for Heroes colours. Team leader Mary Stone thanked everyone for coming, especially Cayle Royce, and all those who had worked hard to make the event happen. The over 60s club meets for teas and coffees every Monday, Tuesday, Friday and Saturday at the community cafe from 9am- 1pm.