A former soldier is returning to Croatia where he led a relief mission during the Balkans conflict more than 30 years ago.

Alan Waller, then a shopkeeper from Norwich, led a relief mission to Bosnia and Croatia backed by the Evening News in 1992.

He raised £1,000 to cover the cost of transport before setting off in a truck loaded with clothes and aid including 90 cases of baby food donated by Colman's of Norwich.

Eastern Daily Press: A cutting from the Norwich Evening News reporting Mr Waller's mercy mission in 1992A cutting from the Norwich Evening News reporting Mr Waller's mercy mission in 1992 (Image: Newsquest)Now aged 60, he plans to return to the Lipik Orphanage in north-eastern Croatia, where he helped the relief effort, with his 14-year-old son Alexander.

"While I was based in a town called Kirk, which was away from the fighting, I had to venture into the conflict zone to deliver the aid," said Mr Waller, who went on to work as a security consultant.

"At one point, I received information about the fighting in Lipik and the children trapped in that area.

Eastern Daily Press: Alan Waller's work was featured in an Anglia TV documentaryAlan Waller's work was featured in an Anglia TV documentary (Image: Newsquest)

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"Consequently, I took it upon myself to provide aid. I brought medicine and supplies to the town, and the children were subsequently relocated from Lipik to the coast for their safety."

The orphanage was rebuilt after the conflict ended in 1995 and celebrates its centenary this year.

Mr Waller said: "I am planning to visit with my son to demonstrate what can be achieved in the aftermath of war, showcasing the remarkable success of the town of Lipik and its people, as well as the care provided to orphaned children, both those who have been there for some time and any newcomers.

Eastern Daily Press: Alan Waller, who is returning to Croatia where he delivered aid during the Balkans conflict 30 years agoAlan Waller, who is returning to Croatia where he delivered aid during the Balkans conflict 30 years ago (Image: Denise Bradley)"War is a devastating experience for everyone involved, be it soldiers or civilians, but it is particularly distressing for children. By revisiting the orphanage, I hope to shed light on a success story from a region marked by multi-ethnic diversity. In doing so, we may inspire hope for a brighter future."

Mr Waller plans to set up a GoFundMe appeal, to establish a scholarship program for young people who have lost their families due to war when they leave the orphanage.