Like most people, Paula Horton is anxiously watching each TV news bulletin about the unfolding war in Iraq.

But her prime purpose is to scan the faces of the troops in the background for a glimpse of her sons.

Paula's two oldest sons, Alistair and James, are in Kuwait, waiting for the order to go into action.

They have been there for four weeks and the tension for them all is increasing.

Paula, of New Road, Uckfield, said: "I am in pieces. While I was watching on Thursday the warning sirens went off. It was terrifying. Everyone was running for the masks and protective equipment. I thought 'I wonder if Alistair or James are there doing that?'

"I keep watching and looking for them. One day I said to my husband Marc 'I'm sure I've just seen Alistair. I'm certain it was him'. And he said 'No, you just want it to be him'."

Alistair, 23, is a corporal and electrical engineer. James, 21, is a lance corporal and works as a chef. By chance, they are both serving with 2nd Battalion Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, stationed in Germany.

Paula said: "I have no idea exactly where they are but I know they are not together. I have been able to speak to them by satellite phone but those conversations are very guarded in case someone is listening."

The pair have written home regularly and asked mum to send some little luxuries.

"I think now they are just anxious to get on with the job they have to do, get it over with and get home.

"They both said how awful the sand is. It gets everywhere and causes lots of chafing which is uncomfortable.

"They asked me to send solar showers - plastic bags that turn into warm showers - and I have sent them sun lotion and insect repellant and foot spray as well as little treats like sweets."

Alistair has written to his youngest brother Jack, 11, to tell him of how he and his colleagues are amusing themselves week after week in the desert.

Paula said: "He has adopted a mouse - it's probably more of a rat - that comes into his tent to eat."

Jack has also been watching the TV coverage and questioned Paula about reports that casualties will be brought into Gatwick.

"He said 'But that won't be Alistair and James will it?' It brought a lump to my throat.

"The boys' father was in the Army and when they joined up it was peace time. I don't think any of us had any thoughts of going to war."