I HAVE often been critical of the media intrusion in military matters and the pressure this puts on our Armed Forces involved in delicate operations.

But there is a time and a place to give support and, more importantly, focus on the facts.

ITV News coverage of our troops’ activities in the Helmand province of Afghanistan has been helpful, raising awareness and providing an understanding of where things are in terms of progress and what still needs to be tackled.

There is no doubt that the war in Afghanistan is different to that which was fought in Iraq – the issues are not the same.

While no one wants to prolong war, not least because of the casualties and suffering, taking the Taliban out of existence must surely be a cause we support?

Bernie Walsh, Coxhoe, Durham.