THE experiences of North-East soldiers in Afghanistan will be the subject of an exhibition next month.

Durham County Council has received more than £50,000 to tell the story of 3 Rifles’ recent tour in the war zone.

The exhibition, at the Durham Light Infantry Museum, in Durham City, will capture the soldiers’ experiences in their words.

Museum manager Emma Hamlett said: “The Rifles are the current successors of the DLI and continue to recruit significant numbers from County Durham and the wider North-East.

“It is, therefore, particularly significant that this funding will give us the opportunity to recognise, record and pay tribute to the bravery of these local people at the home of their predecessors.”

The money was awarded by the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF), the Army Museums Ogilby Trust and the Pilgrim Trust.

Ivor Crowther, head of the HLF in the North-East, said: “It is important that we recognise the contribution these soldiers have made and continue to make both today and in years gone by.

“The HLF is delighted to support this worthwhile project that will see these stories and memories properly archived, making a permanent record for future generations to learn from.”

The HFL awarded £42,000, with the rest of the money coming from the other two groups.

The DLI was formed in 1758, but was amalgamated into the Light Infantry in 1968. Nearly four decades later, in 2007, the Light Infantry became the Rifles, with 3rd Battalion especially recruiting from the North-East.

The exhibition will reflect the experiences of troops who served in Afghanistan between October last year and April this year, making links to the DLI’s involvement in the region during the 19th and early 20th centuries.

It will be accompanied by a 12-month programme of activities at the museum.