AS we approach the time of Remembrance, it is with the knowledge that more than 150 serviceman and women have lost their lives in Iraq and Afghanistan.

The names of these people will go down in history with millions of others who have made the ultimate sacrifice serving their country.

These young men and women are our most recent losses, but war is not new and nor are many of the problems it creates. Emotional strain and relationship difficulties, mental instability and physical scars are but a few of the challenges that individuals and families face during and after operations.

Fortunately, at these difficult times, SSAFA (the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association) is here to assist. Last year the Cleveland Branch helped 360 people.

The support provided may have been practical, financial or emotional. Our trained volunteers meet and talk in confidence to each person needing our assistance.

Anyone who has served for one day in any of Britain's Armed Forces is entitled to a lifetime of support from SSAFA Forces Help.

We also assist National Servicemen, members of the Territorial Army and our reserves forces.

To learn more about volunteering for SSAFA, or to ask for assistance, please call the Cleveland Branch on 01642-217440 or visit www.ssafa.org.uk.

Alan Crosskill, Branch Press Officer, Hutton Rudby.