THEY have just spent more than seven months in the world's most hostile country.

Most mornings in Iraq felt like it might be their last as they sheltered from occasional mortars or went in search of roadside bombs.

Incredibly most of these brave Southampton men will be returning to their normal 9-to-5 jobs over the next few weeks after their tour of duty with the Territorial Army .

They were all part of Operation Telic 9. In total there were 12 Southampton reservists based at Millbrook serving in the 19 Light Brigade, 40 Regiment Royal Artillery. All returned unhurt to the relief of partners and families.

For the six who turned up to the TA Centre in Millbrook for the family day this weekend, it was a chance to spend some quality time with their friends and families while letting their hair down after a gruelling tour.

Gunner Mike Little, 25, said it was a different experience to what he had expected. The father of two, said: "It is nothing like how the newspapers report the situation. It's more hostile and dangerous than it's portrayed. At the same time you can go to places like the markets and the people are really friendly and will talk to you.

"It's scary. As soon as we got into the wagon in the morning you are thinking that it could be the last time you do so or the last time you send a loved one an e-mail or call them.

"I'm glad I went but at the same time I wish I hadn't because it's hard coming back here."

The father of two was in Iraq for more than seven months but returned briefly to Southampton for four days in February to see the birth of his second son Reuben.

Said Mike: "It was a seven day a week job. We got up in the early hours for patrol and searched for IDs (Improvised Explosive Devices) along the roads. We would shut down supply roads and search vehicles and after that we would visit the IPS (Iraq Police Service).

It's been hard readjusting. Out there I was always on the move and now I have a lot of free time on my hands."

He was armed with a SA80A2 semi-automatic rifle, a mini-me general purpose machine gun, a UGL (underslung grenade launcher) and a few Phos grenades (to disable electrical equipment) thrown in for good measure.

"Luckily enough we didn't have to use them," he joked.

Along with three pals, Mike's job was to patrol in an armoured vehicle around several towns including Safwan looking out for those roadside bombs.

Most of the soldiers took part in convoys, foot patrols, vehicle patrols, guarding and ARF missions (Airborne Reaction Force) where they would join a helicopter deployed to trouble spots.

The soldiers spent two or three months training in north Yorkshire before their deployment to Iraq. This meant many were away from their normal job and family for more than a year.

Much of the time was spent in the port city of Umm Qasr protecting the supplies brought in by sea.

Captain Gary Hedges worked in media operations. He will be returning to his job at Hampshire County Council soon. He said the lads' normal jobs ranged from financial clerks to delivery drivers.

"They are from virtually every walk of life and all come together as a cohesive unit. As soldiers they accept the fact that they may have to give the ultimate sacrifice."

If you want to join the TA or would like further information visit www.106regtrav.mod.uk or ring 023 8072 5025.