SOLDIER Michael Rhodes wants letters from Gwent girls to keep up his spirits as he fights in the Gulf.

And we've already found three lovelies keen to write to him and his colleagues in Iraq.

On Saturday the Argus told how Michael asked his parents, Chris and Deborah Rhodes, from St Dials, Cwmbran, to find young people - especially girls - willing to write to squaddies in action.

Mr Rhodes, 39, said that Michael, a gunner with The Queens Dragoon Guards, and his colleagues would love to hear from other young people.

He said: "We do our best to write to him as often as we can but he would love to hear from other young people, possibly female."

And Gwent students Lucy Thomas, Zoe Davies and Gemma Meredith, all aged 18, think it's a good idea.

Lucy, of Risca, said: "I can't as I have a boyfriend, but if I was single then I would like to write to them because I feel sorry for them out there."

Zoe, from Risca, added: "If they write back it's an excellent way to find out what's really going on out there."

And Gemma, of Ridgeway, Newport, said: "I'd write - I'd like to show my support for them and boost their morale."

Factory workers Leanne Windsor and Michelle Whatley, also both 18 and from Risca, agreed.

Leanne said: "I would, because it's a good way to keep up their morale."

Michelle added: "I've got a boyfriend, but I think it's a great idea to write to them.

"I'd like to if I was single".

* Anyone wanting to write letters to Michael and his colleagues can write letters and send them to us at The South Wales Argus, Cardiff Road, Maesglas, Newport, NP20 3QH, and we'll make sure they are passed on.

* Pictured left to right, Gemma Meredith, Zoe Davis, Leanne Windsor, Lucy Thomas and Michelle Whatley