THE final phase of a new welfare centre at a North Yorkshire Army barracks has been opened - just in time for troops heading home following a six-month tour of duty in Iraq.

The Commander of Catterick Garrison, Colonel Jonny Hackett, made the short journey to open the Internet cafe at Claro Barracks, in Ripon.

A contingent of 200 from 38 Engineer Regiment has been stationed in the Basra region since late June, helping with projects that have made life more bearable for soldiers and civilians.

When the troops arrive home soon, they will find a new £180,000 welfare club not only equipped with some of the latest technology, but a comfortable meeting area and room for a creche, which it is expected will be opened early in the new year.