A Royal Marine who lost both his legs fighting Taliban terrorists in Afghanistan has been left “devastated” after councillors rejected plans for his dream home.

Hero Joe Townsend was just 19 when he stepped on an underground anti-tank mine last February, a few months after arriving in war-torn Helmand Province.

After 20 operations and 11 months of round-the-clock medical treatment, brave Joe plans to return to the Marines later this year.

And to help him regain his independence, his grandparents David and Lynda Carter wanted to build him a specially adapted bungalow in their garden in Hankham Hall Road, near Pevensey.

But Wealden District Council's planning committee refused Mr Townsend his dream home, even though they received no objections, leaving the double amputee "distraught".

Building firm boss Mr Carter, 72, said: "We thought they would show a little compassion but the council thought it would set a precedent of people applying to build in the garden.

"It was recommended for refusal but we thought we might win on the day because there were no objections and the neighbours supported us."

Kelvin Williams, head of planning and building control at the council, said: "The Council seeks to support families who need to provide extended care facilities but the erection of a new bungalow out side of the development boundary would be intrusive and be in direct conflict with existing policies to restrain building in rural areas.

"We have suggested an alternative which would involve building an annexe on to the existing dwelling belonging to a family member.

"Alternatively there is the possibility to convert an existing storage building at the rear of the exiting dwelling to provide the required independent accommodation."

Leave your comments below