The soldiers have been training the new Iraqi Police Service and army

For the last six months the 1st Battalion Royal Anglian Regiment has been stationed south of Basra.

They have been training the new Iraqi Police Service and the Iraqi army.

The 1st Battalion based in Pirbright in Surrey will hand over their task in Iraq to the 9/12 Lancers, currently stationed in Germany.

Pte Peter Howell, 19, from Chingford, Essex, said: "It's been a tough but rewarding six months. We have achieved a lot but we're looking forward to getting home in time for Christmas."

Cpl Paul Kearney, 29, from Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk said: "We have helped with security and rebuilding. I've learned a lot but I can't wait to get home and go out and have a good time."