A GUISBOROUGH soldier is helping to keep scores of Army vehicles in pristine condition during a six-month posting in Iraq.

Lance Corporal Brian Combellack, 27, who serves in the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, will return home in November.

His task is to maintain the 4 Rifles Battle Group's armoured vehicle fleet - essential for soldiers to carry out operations in Basra City.

L Cpl Combellack also takes part in patrols and operations in a Warrior recovery vehicle.

He is based in Basra Palace, an marble building built by Saddam Hussein on the banks of the Shatt al Arab River.

The palace is currently being used by the British as a camp.

It is due to be handed over to the Iraqi forces later this month.

"It's really challenging and frightening at times, but you can't help getting a little bit excited too," said L Cpl Combellack.

"I know why we are here, but when it matters, you are only fighting for the bloke next door to you and you know they are doing the same for you."

L Cpl Combellack grew up in Guisborough and attended Laurence Jackson School before joining the Army in 2002.

He is normally based in Tidworth camp on the edge of Salisbury Plain.