ARMY families were given a chance to unwind as their loved ones marked the halfway point of their six-month tour of Afghanistan.

The Dalton Barracks fun day on Saturday was organised at the base near Abingdon by the Ministry of Defence.

Activities included fairground rides, bike displays, music and face painting. The Abingdon Military Wives Choir also performed.

Troops from the 4 Logistic Support Regiment (LSR) have been serving in Helmand since March. And when the soldiers return in October, the Abingdon- based 12 LSR will replace them. They will then be replaced by 3 LSR in March. It is the first time the barracks will have had a year of continuous service in Afghanistan.

Captain Andy Robertson, unit welfare officer for 4 LSR, said: “For families it is quite a trying time. Events like this are fantastic. They get the opportunity to come together to have a bit of fun.”

Major Jon Walker added: “It’s fantastic in allowing families to get together and relax.”