These Bispham brothers are back home after serving six months in Iraq, and could not wait to go and see their number one fans.

It was the first time brothers Captain Carl Tomkinson, of the 1st Battalion Duke of Lancaster's Regiment, and Lance Bombardier Aaron Tomkinson, of the 10th Regiment Royal Artillery, had served on an operation together.

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The pair visited Whiteholme Over 60s Club in Bispham to thank the group for its support and donation of £200 to the Help For Heroes appeal while they were in Basra.

Carl said: "Our nan used to go to this club. We'd like to thank them for everything they've done for us.

"We did six months out there and it really helped to know people were supporting us.

"We saw troops getting injured and this money will be used to build them a swimming pool to help with their rehabilitation."

Aaron, 35, spoke to the pensioners about what life was like in Basra.
He said: "I was protecting the base from rockets. We were in tented accommodation and it was dusty and hot.

"Sometimes it'd get up to 48 degrees celsius and we had to cope with desert storms too.

"Carl and I managed to see each other about 15 times while we were out there which was nice.

"But I missed my kids Jamie, Farrah and Billy."

And Carl, 40, father to Jon and Laura and grandfather to one-year-old Alex, said: "It's nice to be home and see the family!

"We were never really off duty, but the operation is going in the right direction."

John Hester, chairman of Whiteholme Over 60s Club, said: "We are very proud to know these lads. We like to support them because of what they do for us and in memory of their grandmother."

Although the brothers were able to meet up briefly on Christmas Day, parents Joy and Ron are winding back the clock and celebrating Christmas Day now instead!

Mrs Tomkinson, who cooked up a storm on Saturday, said: "I'm so relieved that they, and the other lads from both regiments, are back safely. The Christmas cake is done, we've got the tree up and we've even got Santa coming too."