A CONSTRUCTION worker from Poole is currently serving with the British Army in Afghanistan.

Lance Corporal Chris Ray, an army reservist with 6 Rifles, deployed with 1 Rifles on Operation Toral 8 in March.

The role he has taken on, a far cry from his work on the building sites in Dorset, is one of supporting the UK's contribution to Operation Resolute Support, NATO's non-combat mission to train, advise and assist the Afghan national defence and security services.

And on Saturday, because the UK celebrates Armed Forces Day, news of his service takes on wider significance.

He said: "As a reservist you have so many opportunities. One day I was going about my normal life, the next I was mobilising for operations with the army. It is great to be out here in Afghanistan offering my contribution to the wider mission and I recommend it to anyone that considers a role with the army reserve."

LCpl Ray’s role is to provide force protection to military and civilian advisors who are training, assisting and advising Afghan partners as they work to create the conditions for peace in their country.

During the first half of his tour he celebrated his 24th birthday and despite missing his loved ones, he did receive a birthday cake from comrades in the battalion.

He said: "The amenities out here make for a more comfortable time and if it wasn’t for the internet, FaceTime and the ability to call home throughout the week, it would be much more difficult.

"My mother Sara, father Colin and brother Elliot are all tremendously proud of my service whilst my girlfriend, Emily, is really supportive which I appreciate greatly.

"I am looking forward to some well-deserved R&R and then finally finishing my tour in October.

"Upon my return I am looking forward to having a beer (or two), seeing my family and spending lots of time with my girlfriend, Emily."

The national Armed Forces Day event will take place in Salisbury on Saturday and will be supported by hundreds of smaller events across the country.

Each event provides the opportunity for the public and members of the armed forces to come together to celebrate and acknowledge the contribution they make to the UK.