FAMILIES of Oxfordshire's servicemen have urged the public to get behind our troops in Afghanistan.

Soldiers in Oxfordshire's territorial infantry battalion, 7 Rifles, are at the forefront of the battle to bring peace and stability to the country's volatile south - protecting bases, strategic positions and medical teams.

But relatives in the county feel many people are unaware of the risks being taken - or are turning their backs on the troops for political reasons. And they are calling on the entire community to support their efforts - whether or not they approve of the war in Afghanistan.

Earlier this month, we travelled to the Afghan front to talk to Oxfordshire men and women and recorded messages to their loved ones back in the county, to the delight of their families and friends.

Judith Alford, 44, whose son, Rifleman Carl Alford, 23, is serving with 7 Rifles, guarding a communications tower near the Taliban hotspot of Musa Qala, called on the community to back the troops.

Mrs Alford, from Saxon Way, Headington, Oxford, said: "It is important that the dangers faced by soldiers like Carl are being highlighted.

"It makes me cross when people don't support them. Whether you agree with the war or not, you should get behind them.

"Fortunately more people seem to understand. I am so proud of Carl - but I'll be glad to get him back!"

Ann Thompson, from The Waterways, North Oxford, is missing her boyfriend Rifleman Tony Facciol, 38, who is guarding a remote observation post near Musa Qala.

She said: "Many people don't understand what they are going through - and how harsh life is out there.

"It's really strange here without him. I find myself talking to him even though he's not here.

"When I met him, I knew there was a possibility of him going out there, but didn't realise I'd miss him so much.

"It's worrying for us - especially when he's away from base and I'm not able to hear from him. But it was really nice seeing his video message."

Rfn Facciol's mother, Jean Gardner, from Headington, said: "I'm very proud of him. I can't wait to see him back."

She added: "I'm proud of all the boys there - every one of them.

"It's tough on them, but they are very brave and are a credit to our country."

Major Terry Roper, Operational Welfare Officer for the 7 Rifles, at Headington's Slade Barracks, said: "Whether you think what they are doing is right or wrong is immaterial. Oxfordshire should be proud of them.

"They are doing an extremely difficult job on behalf of the UK. But it's a very stressful time for people who have sons, daughters, husbands, wives or parents out there, risking their lives day after day.

"The Army gives them as much support as it can but there are many ways people here can also help families - even if it's just being there to talk to them about what their relatives are doing."

He thanked members of the public who have sent messages of support and parcels to the troops.

"The guys there really have appreciated it," he said.