Channel 4 Christmas message

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Soldier to give alternative Xmas message
A former soldier who lost his arm during fighting in Afghanistan will deliver this year's Channel 4 alternative Christmas message.
Soldier to give alternative Xmas message

pa.press.net
A former soldier who lost his arm during fighting in Afghanistan will deliver this year's Channel 4 alternative Christmas message.

Sgt Major Andrew Stockton will recount his experiences and urge the public to support Britain's returning troops.

His arm was severed by a rocket-propelled grenade as he went to the aid of fellow soldiers ambushed in Helmand Province in June 2006. The 40-year-old was medically discharged from the Royal Artillery in September.

In a change to the usual schedule, the Christmas Day message won't be broadcast at the same time as the Queen's 3pm address, but at 8.05pm.

A Channel 4 spokesman said: "The wars in Iraq and Afghanistan are areas Channel 4 has covered extensively over the last few years.

"We thought it fitting we should hear from a wounded soldier at this time of year. Andrew urges viewers to reflect on the huge contribution the Armed Forces make, both at home and abroad, and calls for a greater appreciation of an immensely difficult and dangerous job."

Sgt Major Stockton joined the Armed Forces aged 18 and previously completed three tours of Iraq. He's also served in Northern Ireland.

He'll recount how images of British soldiers being greeted on their return from the Falklands had a big impact on him, and will contrast their reception with the "ambivalent" attitude troops now face when they come home.

The message will be introduced by Jon Snow and preceded by a short film by documentary-maker David Modell, described as a "portrait of the emotional anguish experienced by three families separated by the war in Iraq".

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