FORMER desert rats who fought in any of the armed forces in the Desert campaign during World War Two are being invited to a special reunion.

The reunion is being held to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the Battle of El Alamein and is being organised by Flixton resident Alec McCance.

He served with the Derby Yeomanry, the reconnaissance arm of the 51st Highlanders, famous for their part in the battle.

Alec is appealing for all veterans who served in any of the armed forces in the desert campaign to get in touch with the secretary of the 51st Highland Division Veterans Association, Doctor Tom Renouf.

He said: "El Alamein was a very important battle, it was the first battle we won against the Germans and it was the turning point in the war. Everyone who fought in the Desert campaign will have amazing stories to tell."

The reunion is open to all veterans who served in North Africa in any of the armed forces, including the eighth and first armies, lady veterans and Queen Alexandra nurses.

It is being held Perth on October 26, a ceremonial service will be held at the Highland Division Monument on the North Inch.

The Eighth Army Veterans Association is also arranging a separate pilgrimage to El Alamein.

Tom Renouf can be contacted at 14 Windsor Gardens, Musselburgh, EH21 7LP, or telephone 0131 665 3274.