The Welsh Cavalry has been involved in the push for Basra

Reconnaissance tanks from the Queen's Dragoon Guards - known as the Welsh Cavalry - were at the spearhead of British operations in and around the key southern Iraqi city of Basra.

Soldiers from the Welsh Calvary have pushed to within two miles of the city, further forward than any other British troops.

Sunday's push to control Iraq's second biggest city came after days of caution while Basra's defences were assessed.

Back in Wales, protests against the continuing war have been held.

Demonstrations targeting military bases across the UK took place on Sunday, with Welsh sites at RAF Brawdy in Pembrokeshire and RAF St Athan in the Vale of Glamorgan picketed.

Protestors picketed RAF St Athan

At St Athan, peace protesters staged a "die-in" to show their opposition to the war.

Campaigners in the demonstration were joined by international students from nearby Atlantic College.

Some of the students, calling themselves the International Citizens for Peace, wrapped their bodies in bandages stained with fake blood.

Protester Joel Kenrick said: "About 50 people took part in the die-in and I'd say it has been a success.

"We have shown that there are people who do not think the Government should be able to get away with doing whatever they want.

"But we are also here to show solidarity with the troops we don't want Iraqis to die, but we don't want the troops to, either."

Protestors marched to the RAF base

Around 50 demonstrators with banners marched from nearby Llantwit Major to the RAF base.

At the gates of St Athan, they handed a letter to authorities demanding an end to the use of cluster bombs in Iraq and pinned flowers with messages attached to the base fence.

One read: "Support our troops, send them home."

It is the second demonstration to be held at the base this year.