A Westcliff couple today spoke of their pride after their son was dispatched to "fight for our freedom" in Afghanistan.

Ross Sinclair, 19, of St John's Road, was told a month ago his battalion was to be sent to Kabul.

His parents, Malcolm and Janice, both 46, said they were extremely proud of their youngest child who flew out last Wednesday.

Malcolm, a firefighter at Southend fire station, said: "Ross, along with the rest of the armed forces in Afghanistan, is fighting for our freedom."

Ross joined the Royal Anglian Regiment aged just 16 after leaving Prittlewell School, Westcliff.

Since joining the army he has learnt to play the drums and bugle in which he came top of the class.

Published Tuesday, March 26, 2002