A gold medal moment: British Army veteran proposes to girlfriend in front of cheering crowds at the Invictus Games [Video]

A British Army veteran proposed to his girlfriend at the Invictus Games – and was thrilled when she said yes.

James Cairns, 35, went down on one knee to propose to Hannah Wild in front of cheering friends and family at the start of the wheelchair basketball match for Team UK.

Their two-year-old son Arthur was among those watching the proposal.

Since losing his leg to a sniper bullet in Afghanistan, James has been training towards the Invictus Games and is now competing in three sports, biathlon, swimming and wheelchair basketball.

James said: ‘This is my gold medal moment! It has been months in the planning to keep it a secret. 

‘To compete for Team UK and then propose was just amazing. And she said yes.’

James heard about the plans for the Invictus Games firsthand from its founder Prince Harry as he recovered from his injuries at a military rehab unit.

James said: ‘I remember Harry coming to Headley Court …