In the ultimate tale of fatherly love a war hero dad fighting in Afghanistan travelled 5,500 miles across two continents in time to see his daughter dance on Flora Day.

For the journey worthy of his 007 spy namesake, Devere Bond crossed four countries via three aeroplanes - including a Royal Flight - and a taxi, to get back to Helston so he could see 13-year-old Tegan take part in the Children's Dance.

Chief Petty Officer Bond, an engineer with 857 Squadron based at RNAS Culdrose, said: "I didn't think there was any chance of getting back for Flora Day. I was meant to be back at the end of this month, but the squadron gave me the chance.

"It was brilliant to see her dance - I was really chuffed."

Although given the opportunity to fly home, the dedicated dad had to organise most of the flying himself, although his squadron helped out to get him back in time for the big day.

Mr Bond flew at Her Majesty's pleasure, taking the Royal Flight - normally reserved for VIPs, but fortunately with a few spaces to fill - from Camp Bastion to the United Arab Emirates.

From here he took a chartered flight to Cyprus, and then an RAF flight back to the UK.

He returned late on Monday, just in time to see Tegan dance on Wednesday morning with Helston Community College. He has only see her do this once in the last five years.

Mr Bond admitted the response to his arrival home was "pretty awesome," adding: "I got a taxi back and Tegan ran out into the street and jumped on me."

His daughter said: "It was really good having him there to see me dance. It's nice to have him home early."

Mr Bond, who has been back and forth from Afghanistan for the last three years, now looks set to remain in the UK for the foreseeable future, to look after his sick wife Joslyn - his main reason for flying home.

For full coverage of this year's Flora Day see our 12-page special on pages to 31-42.