THE word “family” has leapt to the forefront of the election campaign, with Labour and Conservatives bickering over who has the most familyfriendly policies.

Labour plans include encouraging couples to use mediation to settle problems, changing the law to protect grandparents’ rights if parents split up, and giving fathers more support to bring up children.

The Tories have accused Labour of stealing their policies – especially on grandparents’ rights.

While the electioneering goes on, our attention is also on the importance of family life, as illustrated by the photograph on our front page today.

It is the kind of family photograph which is proudly displayed in millions of homes across Britain. Happiness, togetherness and love are captured in a moment that will be remembered fondly in the years ahead.

Corporal Lee Brownson, of Bishop Auckland, smiles at the camera, along with his wife Leeanne and their beautiful daughters Ginalee and Morgan.

It brings into even sharper focus the sacrifice being made, not only by our brave soldiers in Afghanistan, but also by their families back home.

We must remember the courage and dedication of those fighting on the frontline.

But we must also not forget those who are left behind – the wives and children – who need and deserve the support, not only of the state, but of society in general.

The loved ones of those killed serving their country face emotional and financial hardship for a long time to come.

We must all play our part in supporting them.