A YORK soldier was heading for London today to give the stamp of approval to a commemoration of a famous British battle.

Local Army recruiter Lance Corporal Julian McBride was due at the capital's National Army Museum for the launch of a new second-class stamp from the Royal Mail, wearing the uniform of cavalrymen at the Battle of Balaklava, which took place during the Crimean War, a century-and-a half ago.

The battle has been immortalised by the Charge of the Light Brigade, when 600 British riders charged down a valley into the teeth of Russian guns, all due to a mistaken order.

But the new stamp depicts a hero from the Charge of the Heavy Brigade, which took place earlier the same day.

Although it was a notable British success, when the brigade managed to scatter a much larger force of Russian horsemen despite having to attack uphill, it has long been overshadowed by the Light Brigade's ill-fated action.

Following the battle, a Private McNamara, who took part in the Charge of the Heavy Brigade, was awarded a medal for bravery - and now his face can be seen on the new stamps.

Lance Corporal McBride, who is 22 and works as a regimental recruiter for the Royal Dragoon Guards in York, said: "I am honoured to be given the opportunity to take part in the launch of the new Royal Mail stamp collection. During my time with the Army I have travelled around the world and played sport for my regiment, but this really is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

"Private McNamara was a member of the 5th Dragoon Guards, now known as the Royal Dragoon Guards. This is great recognition of the bravery shown by Private McNamara in the Battle of Balaklava and I am delighted to be a part of it."

The new stamp collection being launched at the museum today is to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Crimean War.

Updated: 10:33 Monday, October 11, 2004