AS the economic crisis deepens and more of us worry about losing our jobs or homes it is all too easy to forget the sacrifices being made by our troops in Afghanistan and Iraq.

That is why Captain Kate Philp’s story serves as an important reminder. The Worcester Army officer is believed to be the first woman in British military history to become a combat amputee after she lost her left foot in a Taliban attack in Afghanistan.

Kate serves with the 17 Corunna Battery of 26 Regiment Royal Artillery and was airlifted for treatment at a field hospital in the notorious Helmand Province after the Warrior armoured vehicle she was commanding was blown up earlier this month. The attack claimed the life of Gurkha Krishna Dura.

Despite lengthy treatment her left foot was amputated after she was flown back to Britain for specialist care in Birmingham.

Kate’s parents have praised their daughter’s courage while offering sympathy to the family of Colour Sergeant Dura.

While the incident has inevitably made headlines because of Kate’s sex, it does serve as a timely reminder as we head towards Christmas of the acts of bravery and selflessness being performed by the UK’s service people every day.

We may be wondering what we can afford to spend over the festive season. They are stuck in hostile territory while their family and friends pray they will come home safe.

We salute Kate Philp’s bravery and wish her well as she recovers from this dreadful injury.