A FORMER serviceman who was injured in Iraq has given an emotional talk to girls at a North-East school.

Duncan Moyse visited Polam Hall School, in Darlington, to pay tribute to the school’s support for the Help for Heroes campaign.

Mr Moyse told the pupils of the importance of recognising the efforts of soldiers who have served in the armed forces in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Polam Hall School is raising money for Help for Heroes with a walk by students, staff, parents and friends on June 12.

The campaign was inspired by senior school students Lucy Smith and Savanna Farmer after their fathers served tours of duty in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Mr Moyse, from County Durham, was serving with Joint Media Operations when he was injured in Iraq in 2003.

He said of the pupils: “The work they’re doing to raise money for servicemen and women through the Help for Heroes Campaign is something they should all be very proud of.”

Headteacher, Marie Green said: “This is another example of our students showing fine leadership and a real sense of concern for others.”

■ To donate to the Polam Hall campaign, go to: justgiving.com/polamhelp forheroes