Tony Grundy, of Leeds Road in Selby, is preparing for sons Peter and James to join their Royal Engineers regiments for a tour of duty.

He said he couldn't be more proud of his eldest Cpt Peter Grundy, 42, and his youngest Sapper James Grundy, 25.

He added: "I wish them both the best of luck.

"As they both joined the army at the earliest opportunity when they were 16, they've spent a lot of time away from home.

"They've fought in war zones before, including serving with their regiments in Iraq.

"Both are seasoned soldiers, and we get used to them serving abroad, but our thoughts are always with them."

Serving in the Royal Engineers runs in the family, as Tony's second eldest son, Paul, 40, who now runs Grundy's Funeral Directors in Selby, served five years in the regiment.

Tony's father Stanley also served in the engineers during the Second World War, and was injured in action.

"My father would have been so proud of the lads and to know they served in the Royal Engineers just like him," added Tony.

"It doesn't seem so long ago Peter and Paul were doing their army training, as was James. James has now done three tours of duty in Iraq.

"The two sons going to Afghanistan will each serve a six-month tour of duty. We'll keep in touch as much as we can, and all the family will look forward to them coming home."