AN army veteran from Peebles has been selected to represent Scotland at the Commonwealth Archery Championships Europe.

Dad-of-two James Hamilton was caught up in a blast from an improvised explosive device whilst serving with the Royal Logistics Corps in Iraq in 2005.

The explosion left him with spinal and hand injuries, as well as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

But after taking up archery following his medical discharge, his determination, hard work and perseverance has paid off with a Scotland cap.

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The event, which takes place over two days, will be held at Lilleshall, Shropshire, on August 28 and 29.

“I’m over the moon” the 39-year-old told this newspaper.

“I found out last week but couldn’t tell anyone until it was announced. This is something I’ve worked my way up to, training four days every week at Peebles, Lasswade and Penicuik as well as two strength and conditioning sessions at a gym in Airdrie run by Help for Heroes.

“I had never done any archery until I tried a taster session after my injury and as I was a Weapons and Skills at Arms instructor teaching new recruits, I just took to it.

“I’ve been at three Warrior Games in the USA and won a bronze medal, but this is a step up in standard to that. This is by far my biggest achievement, getting a cap for my country. The fact that I am competing against fully-abled people makes it even better.

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“Because of my injuries, I use a shooting stool to sit on but it’s taken five-years to get to this standard where I am up there with the best of them.”

John Hopkinsons, the secretary of Lasswade Archery Club, added: “Everyone at the club would love to congratulate James on his selection for the Scotland team. He’s been like a dog with two tails since the news broke and I’ve been like a dog with two tails as well. I can assure you that it’s very difficult to get into the Scotland team.”

James has been selected in the Compound Men’s section alongside Kevin Duncanson, Michael Kozera and Alastair Shields.

The four will compete individually with the combined scores added together for the team score.