TIMES readers are being asked to make a bid for an unusual piece of rock from 'outer space' — a meteorite, sale proceeds of which will go towards a developing charity backing the research to help people like Dominic.

Joseph Toland, his friend and next door neighbour is offering, to the highest bidder, a piece of 'tektite (a mixture of iron and nickel).

It has been in Mr Toland's family for more than 40 years, after it was found by his brother David, a former Tavistock School student, who picked up the rock in Java, while working as a mining surveyor based in Australia.

Joseph met Professor Roland Burns while working on a tidal wave project at the University of Plymouth.

Joseph asked if he could help Dominic and the professor was only too happy to do so. He and Prof Burns hope to work with university research groups and Royal Marine charities to attract funding for this pioneering research.

Joseph said: 'Despite his condition, Dominic is keen to help others and aims to be a public advocate for people with similar disabilities and promote the vital work being done by Professor Burns.

'I really admire him; he never gives up, always tries to be positive and move forward.'

Mr Toland, who was a helicopter aircraft technician in the RAF and served in Borneo during the mid-1960s, where his unit, he said, acted as 'taxi drivers' to the Royal Marines.

He added: 'Dominic embodies everything all that is positive in the Royal Marines; they are the best, tough and determined to triumph over adversity. Just like him.'

If you would like to make a bid for the meteor rock contact Joseph on 01822 854997 or email him at [email protected]">[email protected]