HE THOUGHT his army days were over but now this former sergeant major has been called back to the frontline to fight.Alasdair Ross, a well known face around town as ward councillor for Rushmere, has agreed to join his former colleagues in the 2nd Battalion The Rifles, who are expected to head off to Afghanistan in the new year.

HE THOUGHT his army days were over but now this former sergeant major has been called back to the frontline to fight.

Alasdair Ross, a well known face around town as ward councillor for Rushmere, has agreed to join his former colleagues in the 2nd Battalion The Rifles, who are expected to head off to Afghanistan in the new year.

He will be leaving his duties as councillor for a year as well as his job as a sports coach at Ipswich School and come out of retirement to serve his country.

The 46-year-old, who retired from the armed forces six years ago, said: “They are after certain skills and trades to aid operations. I have got some skills that will be beneficial.

“I am not going into this gung-ho. I realise people have been killed but I think it is the right thing to do because I'm sure we can improve the lives of thousands of Afghans.”

Although councillors are required to attend one meeting in six months, Mr Ross will be asking Ipswich Borough Council for special permission to take leave of his duties until next November.