A SOLDIER on her first tour of Afghanistan is playing a major role in helping the country take control of its own security and future as a nation.

Lance Corporal Amelia Gask, 21, from Richmond, is currently based in the capital city of Kabul as part of operation Toral – a contribution to the NATO mission Operation Resolute Support, which is helping Afghanistan establish itself in the international community.

The UK maintains about 450 members of its Armed Forces stationed in a number of coalition bases across Kabul city and its surrounding areas, advising Afghan ministers and senior officials on security issues; and mentoring the instructors at the Afghan National Army Officers’ Academy - the equivalent of Sandhurst.

Miss Gask has been working at Camp Qargha in the role of a Guardian Angel - the the term given to those who provide close protection security for the advisors and mentors at the ANAOA ensuring they can conduct their work safely. She said: “This is my first tour with the Army and here I am working alongside so many different nationalities. I get to meet many of the Afghan Officer Cadets and to see their progress is fantastic.”