Afghanistan

Chief of the Defence Staff visits troops in Afghanistan

The outgoing Chief of the Defence Staff has been visiting British troops in Afghanistan for the last time in his current role.

Air Chief Marshal Sir Jock Stirrup, who took up the post in April 2006, is set to be replaced by General Sir David Richards next month.

As part of his farewell trip, he dropped in on a patrol base in Nahr-e-Saraj South - a Taliban stronghold until last year. Speaking to soldiers there he thanked them for their dedicated service and underlined the crucial role they’ve played in the country so far.