New training techniques which could save the lives of Welsh soldiers are being taught at Castlemartin's Army Range.

Local MP Simon Hart was invited to watch the training that is helping soldiers use mine detecting equipment more effectively.

Of the 512 coalition troops who have lost their lives in Afghanistan, 280 have been killed by improvised explosive devices (IEDs).

Experts from SAAB Training Systems visited the Pembrokeshire Army base to coach members of the 16th Air Assault Brigade before they leave for Afghanistan in a few weeks' time.

Commanding Officer Lt Col Harry Fullerton said: "The troops have been well trained but this is a new project which has been very well received and which is reinforcing and improving their counter IED techniques."

A combination of high and low tech methods were used to give the troops refresher courses in tracking techniques and metal detecting.

Lance Corporal Jason Ashford from Cardiff was one of those on the course. "In the past I have come across IEDs in Afghanistan and so have my mates, this training is definitely going to save more lives," he said.

"It gives you a boost to your confidence before you go out there."

Mr Hart, who is pictured with L Cpl Ashford being given a basic lesson in the use of the Vallon metal detector by Mark Franklin of SAAB, added: "SAAB is using a mix of surprisingly low-tech but very effective training aids and cutting edge equipment that wouldn't be out of place on a space shuttle.

"All the soldiers I spoke to said they found the course useful and if it means that one less soldier is killed by a roadside bomb then it will have been worthwhile."