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Jenson Button has lent his support to an amputee war hero who is hoping to compete in the world famous Le Mans 24 Hours next year.

Davie Birrell, 31, was serving in Afghanistan in 2010 when he lost both legs are being blown up by an improvised explosive device.

Birrell, who comes from Methil in Fife, Scotland, and who goes by the nickname Davie No Legs, is being backed in his bid to race in the world famous endurance classic by Frome racer Button, the 2009 world champion, who sent him a special video message.

Button said: “Hi Davie, just want to say good luck with the rest of the your racing career, buddy. I hear you have been doing a few races this year.

“Hopefully you can go for a full season next year and step on top of that podium.”

(Image: Getty Images)

Birrell, as reported by the Daily Record , is no stranger to motivational speaking, having given talks in schools to inspire youngsters.

He also got in touch with 17-year-old Formula 4 driver Billy Monger, who lost both legs in a horror crash at Donington Park in April, to offer his support.

But the former Black Watch soldier was still stunned to receive the video from Jenson.

He said: “I couldn’t believe it. When I first saw it, I didn’t think it was for me. It’s pretty cool to get a personal message from such a big name.”