The Queen sent British troops in Iraq a special Christmas message and told them she was proud of their courage and commitment.

The recorded radio message was thought to be the first of its kind during the Queen's 52-year reign and was in addition to her annual Christmas broadcast.

It was broadcast to forces families across the world, including hundreds in Catterick, North Yorkshire.

In it, the Queen said: ''Very many of you listening today will be separated from your families this Christmas, which is hard for both you and those who are left at home. It has been a very demanding year.

''I am proud of the way that you have risen to the challenges with typical professionalism.

''The varied tasks you take on in all parts of the world may be changing, but what remains the same is the spirit, good humour, courage and commitment you show every day, often in the most arduous conditions."

The message was played during Christmas Day breakfast shows on the British Forces Broadcasting Service, to British forces in Iraq and Brunei as well as to garrisons in Germany.

The Queen continued: "The conflict in Iraq has dominated the headlines at home, but I am only too aware that whilst many of you have been deployed there, others have been working tirelessly in many other theatres.

''Whichever service you belong to, peacekeeping and humanitarian missions - helping to safeguard the innocent and offer them renewed hope for a better life - are as much a part of your duties today as combat operations, whether in the Balkans, Afghanistan, or elsewhere.

''Wherever you are, I would like to express my gratitude for your service this year, and I send each and every one of you my good wishes for Christmas and the New Year.''

The wife of one officer, who listened to the message at home in Catterick, said: "It's very unusual, but I'm certain it will bring comfort to those families with husbands, wives and sons who are serving abroad at Christmas."