A HERO street dog which helped British soldiers on patrol in Afghanistan will be guest of honour at

a fundraising coffee morning this weekend.

Gnasher, formerly known as Tangi, now lives on a farm having befriended troops during their tours of duty.

And he will be supporting the NOWZAD animal charity, which helps unite troops back home in the UK with their befriended street cats and dogs, at Monmouth’s Priory from 10am to 12 noon on Saturday, June 17.

War vet Stuart Hale, who runs the Pegasus Games Shop in Monmouth, knew 11-year-old Gnasher while serving two tours in Afghanistan.

He paid tribute to the hero hound, who used to warn soldiers on patrol of suspicious activity and once suffered shrapnel wounds when a roadside bomb exploded.

“I love dogs, as do our troops, because for a moment you can forget where you are and give a bit of love and affection to a domestic dog the same as you can at home and that means a lot on tour,” said Mr Hale.

“Gnasher would go out on patrols with the troops and warn them of anyone acting suspiciously, giving the guys extra warning.

“On one occasion when an IED (improvised explosive device) exploded, Gnasher suffered shrapnel wounds all down one flank.

“He was rushed back to the medic where he was patched up with all the vigour one would expect with a British soldier being hit.”

Gnasher is now living the “life of Riley” in Herefordshire and receives regular visits from former serving troops who travel many miles to meet up with him, such was the bond.

“We are thrilled that Gnasher has kindly agreed to come to our coffee morning to meet NOWZAD supporters,” said war hero Mr Hale, who became the first amputee to return to frontline action with the British Army two years after losing a leg in action in 2006.

“All are very welcome to join us. There will be scrumptious cakes, beautiful affordable crafts and our tombola with all proceeds going to NOWZAD.”

NOWZAD was founded by serving Royal Marine Pen Farthing after he broke up a dog fight and later managed to bring home the dogs he rescued. It changed his life and he later went on to pen two best sellers, One Dog at a Time and No Place Like Home.

The charity continues to help troops and runs a clinic in Kabul, the Conrad Lewis Clinic, named after a young soldier killed in action.

NOWZAD successfully brought home the fallen serviceman’s adopted street dog Peg to live with his parents.

Life in a war torn country is very harsh and NOWZAD is working hard to alleviate that suffering.

It operates a trap, neuter, release scheme, treats any injured animal brought to the clinic and has set up an education programme to help local people care for their animals, including hard working donkeys.

Further information is available on 01873 890532 or at www.nowzad.com