MESSAGES of good luck scrawled on parcels sent to troops "lifted spirits" and "boosted morale," a West Kirby soldier told the Globe.

Back home for the festive season, Lieutenant Gregg McLeod spoke of six months holding the front line in Afghanistan, and protecting civilians from the Taliban.

Leading a team of 27 men, Lt McLeod diverted his troops away from ambush as gunfire and bullet shells filled the air.

But amid the bloody battles, commanders reassured civilians that they would outroot insurgents who were trying to hide in their homes.

"It is a strange feeling when you are in a war zone," said 25-year-old Gregg.

"Somehow you don't feel the fear and enormity of the situation, it is only when you get home and realise you can walk down the street without being bombed that it really does hit you."

Lieutenant McLeod, whose older brother Ross is also in the army, said he felt lucky to be home with his family for Christmas. "It was a proud moment to bring my whole platoon back home unscathed but my thoughts go out to those still in conflict and away from their loved ones.

"The thing that keeps you going is the little messages of good luck from home.

"My parents were sending me parcels but when they were arriving, staff from the Post Office were adding their own little messages on the packaging - that was really heartwarming and helped to keep our spirits up. People just don't realise how much things like that mean."

Working towards his captaincy, Lt McLeod will be honoured in the New Year for his bravery and input in military operations.

His proud father Barry said: "I am really pleased to have both of my boys home for Christmas.

"It was a very emotional moment when Gregg told me how much support he had from the West Kirby community - I was overwhelmed.

"The little things mean a lot to those who are fighting for our country and are thousands of miles from home."