'I can't sleep' says soldier's mother

Nina Cruttenden last spoke to her son Darren, a private in the 23rd battallion of the Pioneer Corps, a fortnight ago when he was stationed in northern Kuwait near the Iraqi border before war broke out.

She says she hasn't slept since Darren, 24, was sent to the Middle East eight weeks ago and has no idea where he is now.

Mrs Cruttenden, of Windmill Drive, added: "All we can do is pray he's OK from day to day. We've got Sky TV and I watch the news channel all through the night. It's painful to watch the destruction because I know my boy's out there but it's the only way I can keep in touch with what's going on."

Darren got married in December after returning from a six month tour of Northern Ireland. His wife Lee got word on Saturday that he was still in Kuwait and safe.

But Mrs Cruttenden was not reassured.

"That could all change in an instant," she said, "The hardest part is not knowing what's going on. I'm his mum and I feel it's my job to protect my boy but I can't. I feel helpless. We can write to them but they can't get any mail back to us."

"When he was able to phone a fortnight ago we were all in tears. He said 'mum, it's horrible here, we shouldn't be here.' He should be at home with his wife.

"Darren joined the army to learn his trade and see the world. He never really expected to go and fight but he knows that's what he signed up for. He's petrified but he realises he has a job to do and he's a professional."

The Pioneer Corps specialises in military logistics such as transport and supply of equipment to the front line. Darren, a former Bexhill High pupil, has been in the army for three years and is usually based in Bicester, Oxfordshire.

Mrs Cruttenden says although she was opposed to conflict, it's now our duty to get behind the armed forces and was angered by anti-war protests late last week.

She said: "When I saw protestors in Town Hall Square I was furious. It seems such a waste of time and a betrayal opposing the war now.

"They don't realise the pain they inflict on the families. My son could die and they're saying it's all for nothing. What must the Forces feel when they see these ant-war demos?"

She added: "Nobody wanted the war, least of all my son, but they are there so let's see Bexhill supporting our lads."

Darren's younger siblings Stuart, 21, and Donna, 17, are also afraid.

Mrs Cruttenden said: "Stuart is refusing to celebrate his 21st birthday until his big brother gets home safe. It's hit Donna very hard. She idolises Darren and is taking it very badly.

"We're just hoping for a swift end to the conflict and to get our boys and girls back home in one piece as quickly as possible."

She thanked friends and colleagues at Lloyds Pharmacy for their support."