A WAR hero is hoping to win a dream wedding to marry the woman who helped him overcome the trauma of serving in Afghanistan.

Lance Corporal Johnathan Horner met Amy Laskey shortly after returning from the frontline in 2010.

During the tour in one of the most hazardous areas of southern Afghanistan, Lance Cpl Horner, from Stockton, was awarded the Queen’s Commendation for Valuable Service for his bravery and lifesaving actions, including finding more than two dozen bombs.

Back in the UK, he found it difficult to cope after witnessing the death of several colleagues, including his team commander, who was attempting to disable a bomb when it detonated.

The 22-year-old said: “It was really hard for me to adapt – I was suffering from post-traumatic stress, but Amy helped me fit back into normal life.

“She has been my best friend, my partner and my soulmate – it is so genuine and true what we have together.”

L Cpl Horner, who is now based in Ripon, North Yorkshire, with 73 Armoured Engineer Squadron, is due to return to Afghanistan in September.

Although an injury could prevent his deployment, he is determined to marry Miss Laskey before his unit leaves.

The couple have entered a competition with Wearside radio station Sun FM to win a wedding.

Primary school teacher Miss Laskey, 26, from Newcastle, said: “Johnny travels to Ripon and back most nights to see me on the train, which is very expensive, so, if we were to marry on our own FILM GLORY: Shaun Stephenson By Joe Willis joe.willis@nne.co.uk accord, it would take several years to be able to afford a nice wedding.”

L Cpl Horner, a former student at Conyers School, Yarm, near Stockton, said: “It would mean more than the world to marry Amy.” The couple have made it to the final of the competition, and are appealing for votes to help them win.

To see the other finalists and vote, go to sun-fm.com/competitions