DEPUTY Mayor of Test Valley Pat West says she felt privileged as well as humbled and grateful to have seen soldiers from 22 Engineers actively engaged in rebuilding work in Kosovo.

Mrs West was in the war-ravaged province at the request of the Perham Down based unit, which holds the Freedom of the Borough of Test Valley.

During her trip she saw how the soldiers went about their work and heard at first hand details of the terrible events which took place between the Serbs and Albanians during the upheaval.

She says people should also remember those who give up their family life for months on end at this year's Remembrance Sunday.

As well as their road building skills the soldiers from 22 Engineers also engage in bridge building between the two communities by keeping the peace.

"They play an important part in policing the area by working with the local police force assisting in searching for weapons in the civilian area," said Mrs West. "I am truly grateful to have been able to meet and speak with nearly all of them even if one or two did complain about not having wheelie bins in their district (Kennet).

"They are a great bunch of people doing a difficult job many miles away.

"So please, when 11 November comes along please support them and our other folk when they march through the town in the Remembrance Day service parade.

"Please spend just a few minutes in reflection on the many who gave their lives for us in the wars, and the fact that we have sent our young men and women too - and the families they have left behind.

"Spare a thought for our brave young people who might be asked to give the ultimate sacrifice if the war in Iraq happens," added Mrs West.