A 17-YEAR-OLD has shown his support for his soldier brother, who is serving in Afghanistan, by snapping up 10 Woofers wristbands.

Joshua Roberts dropped into the Evening Telegraph's office to collect the bands on Saturday.

Joshua, who himself is in training at Harrogate to be a soldier, said it was important he showed support for his brother, Nathan, who flew out to Helmand Province with the 2nd Battalion Mercian regiment (Worcesters and Foresters) two weeks ago.

The former Heanor Gate Science College pupil said: "I think it's very important that we show serving soldiers we are at home thinking about them while they are fighting.

"A lot of people don't realise how hard it is out there, so anything we can do, however small, to show support is a good thing.

"I am currently attached to the Parachute Regiment but, when my first phase of training is over, I plan to transfer to 2 Mercian."

The bands, which bear the message "Support 2 Mercian (Worcesters and Foresters) in Afghanistan", cost £2, with all money raised going to the regimental fund, which provides financial support for soldiers and their families.

They can be bought in the reception of the Evening Telegraph building in Meadow Road.

Judith Wright, of Ripley, whose son, Drummer Thomas Wright, died on the Woofers' last tour of

Afghanistan in 2007, pre-ordered 50 of the wristbands.

She said: "I have had people asking me for months when they are going to be available.

"This first lot of 50 will be gone in a couple of days and I'll be coming back for more."

Peter Vause, of Allestree, has also been helping the Woofers by selling them at Royal British Legion Clubs and Cadet units across Derby.

His son, Josh, is a member of the Woofers and has been in Afghanistan for more than two weeks.

Mr Vause said: "I have got rid of around 200 so far, which is pretty good going, but I want to try and sell the remaining 200 I have and then get some more.

"I have heard from Josh a few times since he flew out to Afghanistan.

"He has been out on patrol and said he is really enjoying it out there.

"He has been made an acting captain as well, which we are all very proud of."

The Evening Telegraph has sold around 100 of the bands, which can also be ordered by calling the battalion on 02890 420375.