A TRIPLE amputee who carried the Olympic torch is giving a fundraising talk in Dorset.

Royal Marine Mark Ormrod lost both legs and an arm while serving with 40 Commando in Afghanistan on Christmas Eve 2007.

The married dad-of-one will speak at Ferndown’s Barrington Centre on Penny’s Walk this Friday at 7.30pm. Proceeds will go to the Royal Marines Association, and also to the John Thornton Young Achievers Foundation.

Lt Thornton, 22, from Ferndown, was killed serving with 40 Commando.

Mark, 28, told the Echo: “I didn’t know John but we were and will continue to be part of the same family – the Royal Marines.

“Whether they are your best friend or you have never even met the person everybody feels a sense of loss because they have lost a brother.”

Mark, who wrote a best-selling book about his experiences called Man Down, will be speaking on overcoming adversity and setting goals.

Mark’s slow and painful rehabilitation eventually led to charity challenges including a 3,500 mile charity run across America in 2010. Mark had the “humbling” experience of carrying the Olympic Torch in his home town, Plymouth.

Tickets at £5, available on 01202 894 858.