AN airman from Chester-le-Street has spoken for many of the armed forces personnel facing peril in the Gulf with a cheery message to loved ones.

RAF driver Senior Aircraftsman Paul Spackman, 21, is driving a battlefield ambulance somewhere in the Middle East.

Paul is a former pupil of Park View Community School.

He is married to Sarah and is usually stationed at RAF Coltishall in Norfolk.

Though ready for action, his thoughts are of home. He took the opportunity to send his love to his family and to express a wish to get the job done and get back home as soon as possible.

Apart from driving the ambulance he is responsible for ensuring the serviceability of the vehicle and providing personal protection for both patients and crew.

He has served with the RAF for three years, and has served in the Falkland Islands and Goose Bay, Canada.

He said: " Hi Sarah, Mum and Dad, I love you all and I am looking forward to seeing you soon."