A PADIHAM mum who campaigned to get the Union Jack flown above the town hall in support of troops in Iraq is celebrating the safe return of her soldier son from the Gulf.

Marion Smith welcomed home son James, 29, after his stint in the Middle East with the Royal Engineer Corps.

The family are planning a celebration at the George IV pub, Padiham Road, on Saturday night to mark the return of the lance corporal.

Marion, of Collinge Street, Padiham, recently won a battle to persuade the local council to fly the flag in Burnley and Padiham during the Iraq war.

She said: "It's wonderful to have James home safe. He is looking really well and has got a fantastic sun tan.

"I'm so proud of what he has achieved. I think he and everyone else out there have done a fantastic job."

James said he was planning to spend time with wife Suzanne, 29 and children Jordan, seven, and Chloe, four.

He said: "It's great to be back and to see everyone. I've been away since February so it's been a while since I've seen the family and I have really missed them. I'm looking forward to spending some time with my wife and children and the rest of the family.

"I'm really proud of what mum achieved with getting the flag above the town halls. When you are in a situation like in Iraq it's good to know you have the support of people back home."

Marion first asked for the flag to be flown in 1991 for her oldest son, Jason, 31, who fought in the first Gulf War.

During the latest Gulf war Padiham councillors voted to write to Burnley Council for permission to fly the flag. They decided to put up flags after Burnley council leader Stuart Caddy stepped in to defuse the row.