A SOLDIER has returned to his home town after serving in several countries, including Iraq and Cyprus, to talk to youngsters about careers in the Army.

Private Christopher Longstaff, a former pupil of Longfield School, in Darlington, will be at the Army careers information office, in Northgate, throughout today and tomorrow.

He will be answering questions from potential recruits and giving a first-hand account of his experiences.

Pte Longstaff enlisted in the Army in 2000. After completing his initial training in Edinburgh and Catterick, he was posted to Cyprus before spending four months on the Falkland Islands.

In July 2003, he was deployed to Iraq with his regiment and was awarded the Brigade Commander's Commendation for his professionalism and commitment.

He has spent the past six months serving in South Armagh, in Northern Ireland.

The 21-year-old said: "I've never looked back since joining the Army. I always wanted a job that kept me active and able to work outdoors."

Warrant Officer Mick O'Reilly, senior recruiter at the Northgate office, said: "If a young person is thinking about joining the Army, and has any questions he or she wants to ask before doing so, then we are giving them the chance to talk to someone their own age, from their own area, who has experienced the training and opportunities on offer.