A SOLDIER fighting on the frontline in Afghanistan has urged people to back the 3 Rifles Wristband Appeal.

Serjeant Major John Pepper, from Meadowfield, near Durham City, said the appeal, which is being supported by The Northern Echo, was a worthwhile cause.

Sjt Maj Pepper, who is stationed in Forward Operations Base Jackson, in Sangin, Helmand province, Afghanistan, explained how the appeal started.

“The British Army was being deployed on operations to places such as Iraq and Afghanistan, where the injuries were more horrific and serious than just a normal injury, such as a broken leg or being shot in the arm,” he said.

“We needed to generate some money for the welfare of the injured troops, so when they were sent home, their loved ones could be close to them.

“We also needed money so we can clothe individuals as soon as they get to hospital and make accommodation available for their loved ones.”

The wristband appeal raises funds to buy essential supplies for soldiers injured or killed, and their families.

The money is also used to cover travel, accommodation and childcare costs for a soldier’s family in the wake of a casualty.

3 Rifles has suffered 27 fatalities in Afghanistan, including Corporal Lee Brownson, from Bishop Auckland, who was killed on January 15.

Readers of The Northern Echo have been supporting the appeal since the campaign was launched last week.

The wristbands, which are on sale at The Northern Echo’s offices in Darlington and Bishop Auckland, have sold out twice. Another delivery has arrived.

Sjt Maj Pepper, speaking from Sangin, said: “Durham County produces approximately 30 per cent of soldiers for 3 Rifles, which dates back to the Durham Light Infantry days.

“I’d like to appeal to the people of the county to buy these wristbands because the money is going to a good cause.”

Payment for the wristbands can be made by cash or cheques. Please make cheques payable to Central Bank 3 Rifles (Wristband Appeal).