OFFICE worker turned TA soldier Nick Balsdon is returning home to Warndon after life in war-torn Iraq. Here, in his last Iraq diary, he talks of getting ready to come home to the Faithful City.

WITH two days to go, my TA colleagues and I are fast becoming demob happy. We're still pretty busy - I spent the weekend moving equipment around Southern Iraq.

Plenty of planning was required, working with both local and UK contractors, other units and the US Army.

Thankfully, all went like clockwork, although our local hire crane failed to turn up, initially. So I spent a period trying to barter with a local firm.

There just happened to be a crane hire yard next to where we were working. I'd just got him down to $100; I only had $36 in my wallet, when our crane turned up.

I've since learnt that the equipment we moved won't work at its current location, so it'll have to be moved, again. This sums up working over here - everything is a major effort, occasionally for little reward.

Having said that, I enjoyed seeing it all happen as intended, it's just a shame it also occurred on a rare day off, after our leaving party the previous evening.

Demobilisation should take about 24 hours once back in the UK. I'd like to thank those who have been reading the column - it's been an experience outside of my normal competence. I'm looking forward to getting reacquainted with friends and colleagues. For those who do know me, please avoid the obvious questions. Happy days.

Regards,

Nick