HUNDREDS of soldiers from the region have been spending Christmas away from home this year - many helping to rebuild war-torn Iraq.
Although the troops ate turkey, sang carols and opened cards and parcels from their relatives and friends, Christmas Day was business as usual.
Lance Bombardier Stephanie McCormack, 22, from Consett is a signaller with the 4th Regiment Royal Artillery in Iraq.
She sent a festive message home, saying: "To Mam and the rest of the family in Consett and Jason Atkinson in Newbiggin Hall - hope you have a good Christmas and New Year and I'll see you in March.
"Make sure the fridge is well-stocked.
"Loads of love, Steph."
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