A SOLDIER has been rewarded for seven months' service in Iraq.

Lance Corporal Alexander Harper, of 2nd Battalion The Rifles, received his Iraq medal in a parade attended by Prince Edward.

Alexander, 23, recently returned to his UK base at Weeton Barracks in Preston following operational duties in Iraq's second largest city, Basra.

In bright sunshine and with the sound of The Band and Bugles of The Rifles ringing out across the parade ground, Alexander was watched by his proud parents, Sharon and Jim, who had made the journey north from Lower Stratton with his grandmother Mabel Harper.

The keen footballer, who has previously played for the Army team, L Cpl Harper said: "I was in the Signals Platoon and it was our job to keep the radio systems working.

"It was a hard tour but very enjoyable. Hard physically, particularly in the heat, but also mentally.

"It was enjoyable because we were doing our job and we got to do things like painting schools, which was making a difference to the people of Basra."

L Cpl Harper was delighted to learn Swindon Town had achieved promotion during his time overseas and pledged to get to as many home games as possible next season.

His mother, Sharon, a sales co-ordinator, said: "It was a hard time for us. Just after he'd gone, you would hear things on the radio and, while you wouldn't wish anything bad to happen to anyone else, you'd just breathe a sigh of relief that it wasn't your son."

Although the parade was a moment for celebrating the battalion's achievements in Iraq, it was also an occasion tinged with sadness as the families of three Rifles soldiers killed during their time in Basra were in the thoughts of the soldiers formed up on parade.

Addressing the battalion, the Earl of Wessex said: "I feel deeply honoured to be able to stand in front of you today, to welcome you home, and to congratulate you on behalf of the Sovereign.

"Today, this is your moment. You are the ones that have carried out the hard work.

"You are the ones standing there very proud of what you have achieved.

"When you march off today, I want you to march off a few inches taller. Well done."

In Iraq, the 2nd Battalion The Rifles, formerly 1st Battalion The Royal Green Jackets, were based in Saddam Hussein's former retreat of Basra Palace, on the southern edge of Basra City.

During the deployment, the soldiers came under rocket and mortar attacks, and had to take precautions against roadside bombs and ambushes, as they battled to suppress the influence of armed militias in the city.

The Rifles were also involved in training the Iraqi police and army, as well as continuing the work of previous battalions to improve services such as water and electricity.