A soldier from Snodland is preparing to go to Afghanistan.

Private Lee Gordon, 25, a member of the

First Battalion of the Princess of Wales's Royal Regiment, will form part of a quick reaction force in Musa Qaleh in northern Helmand province.

Video: Watch Pte Lee Gordon speaking about his preparations for Afghanistan in the video above.

Pte Gordon said: “All of us cannot wait to get the job done and then come home.”

Pte Gordon lives with his girlfriend Keely Bailey, 21, and his two-year-old daughter Grace.

He added: “My family are not very happy about me going because of the way things are going out there.

“I just have to come back safe and sound and that will keep them happy.”

Also training for deployment to Afghanistan is 2nd Lt Rob Morford, from Tunbridge Wells.

The 24-year-old joined the army 18 months ago and is a member of A Company of the Second Battalion of the Royal Gurkha Rifles (2RGR).

2nd Lt Morford: “I am really excited about getting out there as I have been training solidly for a year and a half.

“This is my first tour but I am not nervous as I know the training will take over when I am in theatre.

“Our aim is to mentor the Afghan police and improve their skills in communication with us and the people they are there to protect.

“We have a real impact on local people and are giving a tangible improvement.

“I have always wanted to serve my country and I love the selflessness and respect for each other my job involves.”

Both soliders have been preparing on Salisbury Plain for the tour of duty.