A MINIATURE model army display is coming to Teesside this week as part of a campaign by veterans charity Help for Heroes.

The "40 strong" model force is aimed at highlighting the battle faced by men and women forced to leave the military due to physical and psychological injuries.

The installation, which is touring the UK, will be at the Dundas Shopping Centre, in Middlesbrough, on Friday and Saturday.

Army veteran Paul Cappleman, 56, was medically discharged in 2013 and is now studying for a fine art degree at Teesside University’s MIMA School of Art and Design

He was supported by Help for Heroes and started volunteering in the art room at its northern recovery centre, Phoenix House in Catterick Garrison.

He said: “I only really took up art four years ago but it has given me so many new opportunities.

"Since Help for Heroes’ centre opened in Catterick it’s been there to support me in all my medical and employment needs but it’s also been there for my wife too.”

Rob Colgrave, North-East Area Fundraising Manager at Help for Heroes, said: “Injuries have ended almost 40,000 military careers in 20 years and every day this number grows.

“Many of them tell us that their transition impacted significantly on their health, wellbeing and family.

“The medical discharge process is seriously failing those who are let down by major inconsistencies in support, so we’re calling on the Government to commission an independent review of the process to close those gaps.

“With the public’s support, we’re on a mission to ensure every wounded hero has the best opportunity to stand strong in civilian life.”

The ‘40,000 Strong’ event will be held in the Dundas Shopping Centre from 10am to 4pm on Friday, March 20, and Saturday, March 21.

Visitors can donate in exchange for a special edition boxed figure from the 40,000 Strong installation. There will also be an opportunity to meet Help for Heroes’ staff on Friday, March 20.