HUNDREDS of soldiers from across the region will be spending Christmas away from home this year - many helping to rebuild war-torn Iraq.

Although the troops will eat turkey, sing carols and open cards and parcels from their relatives and friends, Christmas Day will be business as usual.

Despite harsh conditions, the military tries to bring the men and women some festive cheer.

The Northern Gunners, currently serving around Basra, Iraq, have spent the last two months helping Iraqi civilians to rebuild and re-equip schools.

Captain Paddy Gracie, operations officer for 4th Regiment Royal Artillery, known as the Northern Gunners, said: "We have a dual role of guarding our camp on the outskirts of the city and patrolling the southern region as well as helping with the rebuilding of the area.

"We feel we are making a difference."

Soldiers are helping locals to get water treatment plants back up and running. In two weeks, there should be fresh water in Umm Qasr, in the south-east.

And with elections soon to be held in the country, the Gunners are holding one of their own - for Santa Claus.

"We are planning a Christmas dinner and we hope that Santa will make an appearance. The plan is that Santa is selected by the lads on a voting system and the winner will be the one that the lads believe is as close to Santa as possible on the day," he said.

As well as the conflict in Iraq, Army soldiers are also serving in Afghanistan, Northern Ireland, Bosnia, Cyprus, the Falkland Islands, Kosovo and Sierra Leone.

Among those passing on festive messages are the following:

Gunner Christopher Eadsforth, of Peterlee, who is serving in Iraq, has a special message for his girlfriend Zoey, mother and grandmother.

"Happy Christmas everyone, can't wait to come home, see you all soon."

Lance Bombardier Stephanie McCormack, 22, from Consett, is a signaller with the 4th Regiment Royal Artillery in Iraq.

"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."

Sergeant Alan Bridges, 30, from Wheatley Hill, County Durham, is a multiple commander with the 4th Regiment Royal Artillery in Iraq.

"Hi to mum, dad and friends in Wheatley Hill. Hope everyone has a great Christmas and A Happy New Year. I'll be thinking of you. Love Alan."