THEY used to play at being soldiers when they were two little boys - but now they are brothers-in-arms in the Gulf.

Close friends Michael Ahern, 18, and Dean Hanbury, 19, from Newport, who are serving with the Queen's Dragoon Guards, have known each other since they were small children.

And now tank driver Michael, and Dean, a tank radar operator, are standing shoulder-to-shoulder in the showdown with Saddam Hussein.

Michael's mother, Michelle Womersley, aged 41, from Hillview Crescent, Liswerry, said: "He was sent to Kuwait on the day of his 18th birthday a few weeks ago with another squadron because he was too young to go when his squadron was sent.

"I spoke to him a few days ago and he was in very good spirits. He is with the Americans and he said they are very, very friendly."

His family, including brother Sean, 16, and sister Nicola, 14, are nervously watching the news.

"It's a terrible feeling and we are glued to Sky television just waiting to find out what happens."

His father, also called Michael Ahern, 41, said: "I think I'm more worried than he is and I was filling up when I was talking to him.

"He's young and fearless and just wants to get on with things. Michael will be one of the first to go in."

Dean was brought up by his grandmother, Linda Hanbury, from Henry Wood Close, Alway.

She said: "I remember Dean and Michael used to play cowboys and indians when they were little. They're very good friends and they're always together.

"I think he's grown up and matured so much recently and he said he was looking forward to seeing his little sister Casey, who's three-and-a-half and his brother Stuart, who's 12. But all we can do now is wait."

PICTURED: Michelle Womersley, left, holds a portrait of her son Michael Ahern and Linda Hanbury holds one of her grandson, Dean.