SOLDIERS from the Tidworth-based 2nd Battalion the Royal Welsh have taken time out from their gruelling tour in Afghanistan to send Christmas messages to their loved ones back home.

The company is five months into a seven-month tour and is living and operating in the frontline where they are holding ground and supporting operations.

Conditions are austere with the soldiers under constant threat of roadside bombs – known as IEDs.

In their last major operation they found 14 IEDs in a 24-hour period.

“The threat of IEDs reshapes everything that we do – they affect what we patrol, where and how. We lost two soldiers to IEDs in the company,” said company commander, Major Huw Jones.

“It’s a very effective enemy tactic, but also a cowardly one.

“The guys show immense courage going out every day in what is effectively a minefield. It’s quite remarkable.

“What does make a difference for the soldiers is contact back home. Having that connection with home is very important. Parcels, letters and emails all matter a lot to us out here.”

The soldiers’ family and friends have sent Christmas gifts and messages to Afghanistan and now five of the company have sent messages back to Tidworth to thank them for their support.

Pictured -

L/cpl Damien Barnard, 22, of 2 R WELSH


“Hey Madeline. Merry Christmas. Have a good one. Love you millions.”

Sgt David Woodley, 29, with 2 R WELSH


“To Natalie and the boys, I wish I was at home with you this Christmas. It is so hard at times to be away from you all. Though I do hope you have a really nice Christmas, and I am sure we will make up for it next year. Natalie, you are the best thing that has ever happened to me. It’s such a hard thing for you to do, managing two young boys on your own. But you manage with ease. It’s not just the soldiers who should get medals, but the wives as well. Make sure you give Joshua and Iwan a big kiss from their daddy. Wishing you all a merry Christmas and a happy new year. Forever yours, Love David xxxxxx”

Sgt Nick Guy, 38, a REME soldier attached to 2 R WELSH


“Hi Rita and a big hello to little Luke, Leah and Christopher. Merry Christmas. See you all soon. I love you xxx”

Cpl Craig Roocroft, 28, of 2 R WELSH


“To my wife and two boys, Merry Christmas. Love you all.”

L/cpl David Martin, 24, a REME soldier attached to 2 R WELSH based in Tidworth


“Hi Kate, just a quick message to say have a very Merry Christmas. Missing you loads. I’ll see you in the New Year. Love you billions babe xxx”