HE used to pound the streets of Huddersfield as a postman.

Now Lee Scaramuzza has a far more challenging role - deep in the Afghan countryside.

Bombardier Scaramuzza is serving with 29 Commando in the Allies' big offensive in Afghanistan and his role is particularly vital in the troubled Helmland Province.

He is working as a fire support team commander, responsible for finding enemy positions for attacks by aircraft, helicopters and artillery.

It means an anxious wait in Dalton for his family, especially his mum, Andrea, and sister Lisa.

Mrs Scaramuzza said: "Lee's dad Paul was a soldier for many years with 3 Para and he served in troubled areas.

"I worried as a wife, but now I worry even more as a mum.

"But Lee is in touch regularly, both by text and by e-mail if he can get the chance.

"He is enjoying the experience of being out in Afghhanistan and seems in good spirits".

Lee, 27, has been in the Army for six years.

He studied at King James's School, Almondbury, then Huddersfield Technical College, before joining Royal Mail.

Lee said: "In 1999 I decided I needed a new challenge and I joined up.

"I trained at Purbright and was top recruit on my course.

"My job has taken me all over the world, including Iraq.

"I was on the second helicopter to land on the first night of the Iraq war. Now I'm in Helmland in Afghanistan with 29 Commando.

"I find my job very rewarding in a good way and find it easier to get by with the help from my family and friends back home in Huddersfield.

"I'd like to thank them through the Examiner for all the support I receive while I'm out here and I hope to be home for a couple of weeks around Christmas."

Mrs Scaramuzza said: "Lee is in touch when he can be and he tells me about conditions out there.

"It's very warm . He tells me they've all got tans and have grown beards because they are out of the main camp.

"But it is a worry. I don't watch the news as I don't want to worry any more than I have to."