A MOTHER is promoting a forces charity in honour of her son starting his first tour of Afghanistan - only two weeks after his appendix burst.

Carrie Rutter is holding a charity buffet, collecting goods to send to troops in the warzone, and asking fellow businesses to adopt Care for Casualties, which is a Rifles charity.

Mrs Rutter's son, Ben Jones, from Hummersknott, Darlington, joined 5 Rifles two years ago and last month began an eight-month tour of Afghanistan.

She said: "I'm really proud of him for what he's doing.

"He didn't always want to be a soldier, but there were no jobs out there, so he decided he wanted to make something of his life and joined the Rifles."

Rifleman Jones - a lead machine gunner - embarked on his tour despite having appendicitis and an ensuing operation only two weeks ago.

His mother said he had complained of pains during leave, but it was when he returned to camp that his appendix burst.

His tour of duty was initially deferred until October, but he insisted that he go out the same time as his colleagues.

Mrs Rutter said: "Because I'm more of a doer, I rang the Army and asked if there was something I could do to help them.

"They said they would be absolutely thrilled to get me involved and asked if I was any good at raising money.

"They told me about artificial legs and the fact they cost £36,000 each. I think you can only really raise money for something which touches your life."

The Care for Casualties is a charitable appeal which gives wounded Rifles soldiers, and their families, the support, the inspiration and the means to begin rebuilding their lives.

Mrs Rutter's main event will be a fundraising evening at The Northern Echo Darlington Arena. There will be a buffet with entertainment from Irish band The Emerald Thieves. There will also be a raffle on the night with businesses asked to donate prizes.

Mrs Rutter is also collecting non-perishable goods such as coffee, tea and noodles snack pots, or things to read, which she can send to troops.

Tickets for the event cost £25, of which £15 will go to the charity. For tickets or to donate items, contact Mrs Rutter at Carrie Rutter Hairdressing, in North Road, Darlington, on 01325-749748 or visit justgiving.com/CarrieRutter7