MEMBERS of the local Royal Naval Reserve unit HMS Wildfire heard of the roll reservists play in the "war on terror" from an American admiral.

Rear Admiral Mahon spoke to the volunteers after he had inspected the unit's annual Ceremonial Divisions in front of their families and friends at the Nato headquarters in Northwood.

The admiral, deputy chief of staff operations at the base, said reservists made made a vital contribution to operations around the world, particularly in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Admiral Mahon noted that he was speaking on the 24th anniversary of the surrender of the Argentine invaders of the Falkland Islands.

Royal Naval reserve forces saw action in the liberation of the islanders from occupation, he said.

The admiral then presented awards to several members of Wildfire's personnel for outstanding performance and contributions to training.

After the formalities, families and friends joined the ship's company for a barbeque and party, with bars, bouncy castles, face-painting, sports games and a jazz band.

The RNR is the Royal Navy's equivalent of the Territorial Army, with about 3,200 officers and ratings.

It is a part time organisation, which complements the Royal Navy in times of war, other conflicts and in peacetime.

HMS Wildfire is the RNR's training centre at the national defence HQ in Northwood.

Volunteers must be aged 16 to 40. Younger people can join the sea Cadets For more information on the RNR, call HMS Wildfire on 01923 843 470 or see www.royal-navy.mod.uk.