Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment soldiers are VIP guests in Burnley

The troops, who were guests of Mayor and Mayoress Coun. Tony and Mrs Brenda Lambert, were presented with computer equipment donated by businesses, before they start active duty in Afghanistan in the next few months.

They were given five laptops with webcam facilities, two digital projectors and one notebook so they can keep in touch with their families while serving abroad. The presentation was watched by councillors and community leaders.

Burnley council leader Coun. Charlie Briggs said: “We were delighted to host this special reception for our brave troops and to welcome and thank the local businesses that have got involved in the event. Their generosity has meant that tonight we can present the Regiment with this IT equipment so the boys can keep in touch with their relatives back home.

“I know I speak for all of the Council when I say we are honoured to be able to host this event, and thanks to everyone who has come along.

“I know first hand the bravery of the troops here tonight as my son has been in the Army for 12 years, and my nephew came back from Afghanistan at Christmas. I couldn’t be prouder of everyone and want to thank them on behalf of Burnley Council for their efforts.”

Commanding officer Lt Col Andrew Kennedy added: “Thank you to the Mayor and Burnley Council for hosting this reception. There have been many times when I have stood in front of soldiers far away from home and told them people at home are thinking of us and we can’t let them down.

“Events like this just highlight how much support there is for us at home, and I’d like to thank local business leaders and the council for this as we couldn’t fulfil our vital role for the nation’s security without it.

“The donations will help communications between deployed troops and their families at home while they are away training, and this equipment will help them to keep in touch. We thank local businesses for their astonishing support for our troops.”