A war veteran proudly took his place at Medway’s Armed Forces Day parade thanks to the loan of a mobility scooter.

Les Smith fought during the Second World War and has been a regular face at forces events in the Towns for years.

Mr Smith, from Chatham, was unable to march in the parade as a result of a recent hip operation, but thanks to a fellow scooter user, he was able to take part.

Mobility company Quingo came to the rescue after lending services veteran Maurice Bernard a scooter when he was invited to a Buckingham Palace garden party.

Mr Bernard, a former Pride in Medway finalist who campaigned for better dementia care at Medway Maritime Hospital, thought the company could do the same for Mr Smith.

He said: “Quingo were kind enough to lend me a Quingo Air mobility scooter which easily dismantles into the boot of my car. This meant my daughter and I were able to get a lift with my son-in-law to Buckingham Palace.

“Prince Charles was very interested in my Quingo, and even asked how fast it went.

“When I heard about Les’s situation, I thought I would ask and see if they could help him like they helped me.”

Mr Smith added: “The Armed Forces Day parade is one of the highlights of my year and initially I was devastated when I found out I couldn’t go.

“The scooter gave me the ability to join the parade, which I’m so proud and privileged to have been a part of.

“I would like to thank Quingo and Maurice for getting in touch and bringing my story to their attention.”

Mark Nicholls, from Quingo, added: “When we heard about Mr Smith’s situation we were very happy to help. Considering what he has done for our country, it was the least we could do.”