29 NOVEMBER 2008, Page 46

M ESSAGE FROM THE W AR Z ONE Good news Stuck with chemical toilets For seven months.

Previous Brigade not gone. Temporary quarters Clean and spare of any comforts.

Journey here ok Domestic flight fully loaded, Latest films, online catering.

Military spur from Qatar Centre seat, no neck support, Sleep grabbed between jolts. Jarred to an uneasy landing.

Night watch from a foxhole Over-populated with rats.

Just waiting for insurgents Can call in chopper for support Night watch ends No call for extra men.

Back to better barracks, Sleep and good food.

P. S. relaxing other day, reading Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy — Chinese rocket passed over my head. Helmeted and body armoured in under 5 seconds.

Now that is good news.

Eleanor Nancolas