THE mother of a teenage soldier killed in Afghanistan has launched a charity for families involved in the conflict.

Lucy Aldridge, from Bredenbury, has joined forces with seven mothers to launch Afghan Heroes.

The charity – which aims to support families of the fallen and of those on the front line – is a mother’s legacy, born from Britain’s bloodiest day in the conflict.

Lucy met the other grieving mothers in Wootton Bassett on July 14, when her 18-year-old son made his final journey.

Rifleman William Aldridge was killed in a roadside explosion four days before, the youngest of eight fatalities in 24 hours.

The mothers shared a common bond, and wanted to help other families in the same position.

“It was the first time that so many were repatriated together, or lost within 24 hours,” said Miss Aldridge.

“If there was anything positive to be drawn from our bond, it’s that we’ve come together as an extended family.

“We believe there are lot of small charities doing incredible work, but nothing has been co-ordinated on this scale.

“There are specific needs for the families of those who are serving in Afghanistan that need to be met.”

One of the charity’s first campaigns is the Thank a Soldier project, where home comforts will be sent to the 9,000 troops serving in Afghanistan.

They need to raise £540,000 for the delivery, to coincide with next year’s Armed Forces Day.

People can make donations at afghanheroes.org.uk.

■ Knitters have been urged to raise the flag for the Afghan Heroes campaign.

Ali Aldridge – aunt of fallen soldier, Rifleman William Aldridge – wants to the create the world’s largest knitted Union Flag.

Ali, from Bristol, is hoping to get knitters to donate squares or woollen items in similar colours.

The exhibition will coincide with next year’s Armed Forces Day.

For donation details, contact Ali on 07540 885592, or email cupcake_ heaven@hotmail.com.

And a Golden Valley tea room is hoping to help recovering soldiers.

Stables Tea Rooms, Abbey Dore, is holding a coffee morning and raffle on Saturday from 11am to 1pm.

The venue is supporting Linda and Matthew Wilson’s campaign to provide soldiers at Selly Oak Hospital with better clothing.

For details, call 01981 240279 or visit stabletearoom.co.uk.