A VERY special member of the First Battalion Welsh Guards has been keeping youngsters updated on their parents' progress in Afghanistan.

Tudur the Bear joined soldiers, who had been based at Hounslow Cavalry Barracks, in Hounslow West, on their six-month tour of duty to help them stay in touch with their children during the difficult separation.

As well as the usual Army duties, he has been writing letters, answering their questions and sending photos back from camp.

He answers their letters as honestly as possible, responding to questions like 'what does Daddy do every day?' and 'what happens if Daddy gets injured?'.

When children are really struggling, he will send a photo of him with their father or mother, or arrange a call home to offer some much-needed comfort.

One example was when Hannah Hedges was missing her father ahead of her sixth birthday.

Tudur arranged for 'daddy', Lance Sergeant Hedges, to send a special birthday message from Helmand, where he is deployed on Operation Herrick 16.

Lieutenant Dan Bell, of the battalion, said: "Hannah is a big fan of Tudur Bear, who keeps the boys and girls up to date with the good work their mummies and daddies are doing out here."

The cuddly mascot recently made a special trip home to Hounslow Cavalry Barracks for some R&R, spending a night each with different Army children.

The Army Welfare Service runs regular Tudur Play Sessions, where youngsters enjoy games and arts and crafts while learning more about what their parents are up to in Afghanistan.

Previous sessions have seen children put together boxes to send to their parents, packed with home comforts like tea and sweets.

Last Saturday (September 15) it organised a fancy dress fun run at the barracks in aid of the Forces Children's Trust, which helps children whose father or mother has died or suffered life-changing injuries while serving in the Armed Forces.