A YOUNG Royal Navy sailor who will be away on operation in the Falklands over Christmas is sending a special festive message home to his friends and family through your Malvern Gazette.

Able Seaman Reece Bannister, 21, will be tucking into his Christmas dinner on board the type 23 frigate HMS Richmond, which is carrying out anti-drug and piracy patrols in the South Atlantic. The former Chase School student, who lives in Malvern Link, joined the Royal Navy at the age of 17.

Although he will miss his hometown this Christmas, he said: “I am thoroughly enjoying my choice of career and haven’t looked back.

“To my friends, family and girlfriend Chelsea back home, I wish you a very merry Christmas and a happy new year.

“My Christmas presents have arrived so I’m sure I’ll have a good time too.

Looking forward to seeing you when I get home. Lots of love, Reece.”