NHS medics serving in Afghanistan arrived home to Liverpool for an emotional reunion with their families.

The Territorial Army members spent three months caring for the wounded at the Camp Bastion hospital – the world’s busiest trauma hospital.

The team – workers at local NHS hospitals ordinarily – were given a warm reception by family and friends at the 208 Field Hospital headquarters in Childwall on Monday afternoon.

Major Barry Fitzpatrick, 40, swapped being a charge nurse at the Royal to run an emergency room for critically injured soldiers.

The Bebington dad enjoyed a tearful reunion with wife Julie, 37, and sons Luke, seven, and Nathan, four.

VIDEO: Troops tell of their joy after returning from service

After three tours of duty, including a stint in Iraq, Barry is now calling it a day.

He said: "I’ve really missed my family. I told the boys the reason I was going away was so other dads would be able to come home.

"It was a challenging environment to be in, being in charge of different nationalities. But there was a fantastic spirit and we can be proud of the job we’ve done."

The hospital in the camp is equipped with everything a standard NHS hospital in Britain has, including an accident and emergency department, intensive care beds and operating theatres.

Jo McArthur, 40, used her skills as a ward nurse at Aintree hospital to help injured servicemen.

The Croxteth mum-of-two’s daughter Jessica, 18, was there to welcome her home.

She said: "My mum and I are two peas in a pod and it’s been really difficult without her.

"I’ve had to grow up in a big way without her and to have her back is better than any Christmas present."

More pictures of the emotional reunion >>>