CHEPSTOW-based troops packed their bags for a six- month tour of duty on the streets of the Afghan capital Kabul.

Soldiers from the 2nd Battalion of The Royal Anglian Regiment - known as the Poachers - are backing a multi-national peacekeeping force.

The 110 troops left their Beachley barracks yesterday for a disused grain storage compound on the road to Jalalabad. They will run patrols and fight crime in the eastern part of the city.

Lieutenant Colonel Roland Ladley said about 30 per cent of the battalion's strength left for the arid, war-torn country.

He said: "It's a fantastic opportunity for them. It's an extraordinary place and one of the most interesting countries the Army has served in."

He described the posting as "medium risk" but said the men had six weeks training for the operation and many had experience of Northern Ireland behind them. Lance Corporal Steven Pegg, 21, is leaving his Chepstow wife Jade, a care assistant, behind for the six month tour.

He said: "She is quite concerned as I have just returned from six months in Northern Ireland. I'm a bit disappointed to be going to Afghanistan rather than the Gulf, but I am looking forward to it and I'll come back with a nice tan."