Dignitaries from a town near Swindon gathered to congratulate one man and his team for taking on an incredible challenge.

Dennis Curie, who works in Belfast, took the decision to cycle 1200km from Belfast to the Somme over seven days to raise money for Andy Allen Veteran's Support and raise awareness of suicide and homelessness among veterans.

London-born veteran Dennis Currie first discovered the charity after arriving in Northern Ireland in 1977, at the height of the Troubles.

Despite his proximity to the conflict, he fell in love with the area and was keen to make a difference to others who had experienced war like him.

Dennis Curie (centre) and his team stopped off in Royal Wootton Bassett to lay a wreath.Dennis Curie (centre) and his team stopped off in Royal Wootton Bassett to lay a wreath. (Image: Royal Wootton Bassett Town Council)

Dennis and seven other veterans passed through Royal Wootton Bassett on their way to the Somme on Wednesday, June 26, just days before Armed Forces Day, and were greeted by a welcoming crowd of town officials.

Town Mayor Councillor Pat Farrow, Town Crier Owen Collier and members of the Royal British Legion all met Dennis next to the War Memorial on Royal Wootton Bassett's High Street.

A member of the cycling group laid a wreath at the War Memorial in honour of Royal Wootton Bassett's fallen soldiers, and the Mayor was presented with a Blackthorn stick topped with a crest of the Royal Irish Rangers.

"May we wish Dennis and his team a safe journey to the Somme," said a spokesperson for the town council.