A SOLDIER in Iraq gave a cake prepared by his fiancee to one of his comrades - only for it to be returned.

Private David Smith from Pallister Park, in Middlesbrough, gave the cake to Sergeant Billy Swails on his 40th birthday earlier this month.

But Sgt Swails, from Stockton, kept the cake until Pte Smith's 20th birthday on Sunday, and then returned it.

The cake was shared at breakfast in Basra before Pte Smith had to endure watching his team Middlesbrough being beaten 4-0 by Arsenal.

Sgt Swails serves with B Coy Tyne Tees regiment in Stockton Rd, Middlesborough.

Pte Smith became engaged to Gemma just before he was posted to Iraq.