SOLDIERS from Bicester have run a kilometre for each of their hero comrades who have died in Afghanistan.

But the most poignant moment was kilometre 348 as it represented Warrant Officer Class 2 Charles Wood, who was one of their own.

WO2 Wood, of 23 Pioneer Regiment, was killed on December 28 while clearing roadside bombs in the Helmand valley, just days after organising Christmas festivities for his men.

His widow Heather, pictured, 31, of Langford Village, Bicester, joined soldiers outside Tesco, in Pingle Drive, to run the 348th kilometre in honour of her husband.

It was the third year running troops from St David’s Barracks, staged an endurance fundraiser in the town.

On both previous occasions WO2 Wood was one of the organisers and participants.

Mrs Wood said: “Never in a million years would he think I would do this, there was more chance of me doing a marathon shop around Bicester Village than running anywhere.

“But this is a way to carry on that baton.”

Troops raised cash for the new 23 Pioneer Soldier Benevolent Fund, which will support families of soldiers killed in action and injured troops, and national charities Help For Heroes and the Army Benevolent Fund.