A SOLDIER who lost a leg in an explosion in Afghanistan has completed a 2,000-mile yacht race.

Johnathan Lee, aged 25, had to have his right leg amputated below the knee 12 months ago when he was blown out of his military vehicle and thrown into an unmarked minefield.

As part of his rehabilitation he has been taking place in yacht racing.

He was part of a team of 12 amputee soldiers taking part in the 2008 Atlantic Adventure, competing against able-bodied crews.

The Spirit of Juno finished the race, from the Cape Verde Islands off the western coast of Africa, to Barbados, in 10 days, taking third place.

Johnathan, a former pupil at St James’ School, Farnworth, is now enjoying the sun in Barbados.

His proud father, Brian, of Ladybridge, said: “This is a fantastic achievement for the crew to complete the 2,000 mile course in 10 days. There were a lot of challenges for them to overcome and the team became very close during the trip.”