Weymouth war amputee sailors appeal for World Cup boat name

Two amputee soldiers have invited the public to name a yacht they are using to take part in the Sailing World Cup. Craig Wood and Steven Palmer lost limbs during explosions in Afghanistan and want to repay public support in financing their vessel. The keelboat for the Weymouth-based pair has been funded by donations to the Help For Heroes military charity. Mr Palmer said the specially adapted boat has meant "that our dream can become a reality". 'Push the boundaries' Sailing has formed part of their recovery after both being hit by an explosive device while on routine foot patrols in Helmand, Afghanistan. Mr Wood, originally from Doncaster, is a triple amputee who also suffered severe shrapnel wounds to his face. Double amputee Mr Palmer, originally from Newcastle, said the funding means "we can continue training and competing internationally and to continue to push the boundaries of what is possible post injury." He added they have invited the public to think of a boat name via Facebook "as a way of showing how grateful we are for the public's support". The duo are training at the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy ahead of the ISAF Sailing World Cup in Hyeres, France in April. A boat naming ceremony will take place later in the year.