Brave soldier Simon Jones survived six months of Taliban attacks and bombings in war-torn Afghanistan before returning to the arms of fiancee Hayley Allan for their big day.

Just weeks after returning from a six-month tour of duty, the 23-year-old walked up the aisle with his long-term girlfriend.

During his tour of duty, where he was based in Kharnikah, Pte Jones survived several attacks by Taliban bombers, losing comrades and friends. “Joining the forces was just something I always wanted to do,” said Simon, who is permanently based in Germany.

His mother Sylvia, 54, of Albrighton, said the ceremony had been a lovely end to a “very worrying” year for the family.

Pte Jones, of 3rd Battalion Mercian Regiment, wed his bride Hayley at St Mary Magdalene Church in Albrighton yesterday followed by a reception at Somerford Hall in Brewood. His mother said planning the wedding had helped take their minds off what he was facing in Afghanistan.

The 23-year-old signed up to the military two-and-a-half years ago, and was sent to Afghanistan in April.

The couple have been together for six years after a chance meeting on a night out at the Harp Hotel, Albrighton.

Hayley, 22, said he proposed at Christmas two years ago.