Last updated 13:46, Monday, 25 August 2008

A heartfelt welcome home to Cumbria’s Territorial Army troops who returned yesterday from Afghanistan.

Military conflicts always divide opinion, but surely nobody can have anything but admiration for our part-time soldiers who play such a vital role in not only protecting lives, but rebuilding them.

The 34 Territorial Army soldiers from 4th Battalion The Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment have been rightly commended for their actions during their gruelling six-month tour in Kabul.

As well as patrolling the streets of the dangerous city to detect and deter would-be suicide bombers, the volunteer troops have been using skills from their day jobs to improve the lives of those in Kabul.

The Cumbrian peacekeepers included a joiner, plumber, mechanics and other tradesmen.

Among the successful operations carried out were catching smugglers and identifying fake security passes.

While on the streets, they have been winning hearts, minds and trust and gathering intelligence for the Afghan police and military.

Sadly, we have recently seen the deaths of Cumbrian soldiers Private Charles David Murray and Corporal Sarah Bryant in the line of duty, and we share the relief of families that our TA soldiers have returned safely.

Their job should never be taken for granted. They are true heroes.