FORMER Ruskin High School pupil Helen Cheers is helping to keep things moving in Kosovo.

The 20-year-old Private, from Crewe, plays a vital role in making sure British soldiers get to the right place at the right time in the Balkans.

Helen is serving with 29 (Movement Control) Regiment, Royal Logistics Corps and is based just outside Pristina.

She is responsible for the movement of troops, vehicles and equipment by road, rail, sea and air for the NATO-led Kosovo Peace Implementation Force (IFOR).

Helen has visited Italy, Norway, Gibraltar, Slovenia and many other countries since joining the army.

"We're like travel agents and airport check-in staff combined," said Helen, who used to work at Giovanni's Restaurant before enlisting in 1997.

"When I came to Kosovo I thought that it was very similar to Bosnia, the burnt out cars and bomb damage.

"The local people are very resourceful and life is getting back to normal. There are lots of children in the streets.

"I joined the Army for a challenge, working in Pristina under the conditions we have is a challenge but we are all coping well and making the most of it."

In her spare time Helen has helped with disadvantaged children through SSAFA, the Soldiers, Sailors and Air Force Association, which sends the youngsters on adventure holidays near Weymouth.

Her parents, Graham and Mary Cheers are still living in Crewe and Helen misses her family, especially her mum.

"My parents were a little concerned for my safety but now that I write home regularly they know I'm OK," she added.

Helen is expected to complete her tour of duty this month.

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