THE M.E.N.'s war correspondent Martin Dillon has been answering readers' questions live on ManchesterOnline about his time in the Gulf.

Martin took part in the webchat on ManchesterOnline and revealed what life was really like in Iraq during the conflict.

He was based with the 7 Para RHA for six weeks. During that time he kept M.E.N. readers up to date with developments in the Gulf as well as giving our website users an insight into life with the forces in his regular diaries.

The online link-up also proved popular with residents in the regiment's home town of Aldershot in Surrey.

During the webchat people logged on from across the world and asked questions on subjects ranging from toilet roll rations to peace-keeping activities.

Martin said: "It was really good to get feedback from some of the people who have been reading my diaries over the past few weeks.

"I was surprised at the level of interest the diaries generated and glad that they provided a useful link for families with loved ones in the Gulf.

"Hopefully the regiment will be back soon and all the relatives will be reunited. I look forward to meeting the troops again when they return and sharing a few quiet drinks with them!"

ManchesterOnline editor Sarah Hartley said: "Over the past two months Martin's regular dispatches from Iraq proved compulsive reading for those with serving relatives.

"The webchat gave them the chance to contact Martin direct."

Martin's diaries will be on ManchesterOnline until after the soldiers return home. His remaining stock of photographs and messages received will be published in the coming days. Tweet