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Call to Kosovo

LESWALT'S Alan Modrate will spend the next year armed 24-hours a day in war torn Kosovo.

The Ministry of Defence police officer has just flown out as part of a United Nations force to try and restore law and order. And, amazingly brave Alan volunteered for the danger-filled 12 months. During the year, Alan, 11 Challoch Crescent, will have only have three chances to see his family.

And, he is undergoing weeks of training to be ready for the dangers that he will face every day.

The West Freugh based officer spoke to the 'Free Press' this week before getting the call that sent him into 12 months of the unknown. And, he admitted

"Everything you are getting is third or fourth hand but some of the things that people are telling you are really quite scary".

With a wife and three children, Alan's decision was not easy but he has the full support of his family.