GALLERY: Harrier heroes leave Afghanistan

A 1 (Fighter) Squadron Harrier pilot prepares for take-off [Picture: SAC Neil Chapman, Crown Copyright/MOD 2009]

A Harrier takes off to provide cover for troops in Afghanistan [Picture: SAC Neil Chapman, Crown Copyright/MOD 2009]

Ground crew prepare a Harrier for its next sortie [Picture: SAC Neil Chapman, Crown Copyright/MOD 2009]

A 1 (Fighter) Squadron Harrier pilot prepares for take-off [Picture: SAC Neil Chapman, Crown Copyright/MOD 2009]

A 1 (Fighter) Squadron Harrier taxis past Kandahar International Airport [Picture: SAC Neil Chapman, Crown Copyright/MOD 2009]

A 1 (Fighter) Squadron Harrier in its temporary hangar [Picture: SAC Neil Chapman, Crown Copyright/MOD 2009]

1 (Fighter) Squadron's Harrier pilots have raised over £5,500 for forces charities, Help for Heroes and Combat Stress, by flying cuddly toys into battle for a small fee and taking photographs when safely on the way back to base [Picture: SAC Neil Chapman, Crown Copyright/MOD 2009]