AN aircrew from RAF Brize Norton is helping rescue British nationals from South Sudan.

The Royal Air Force C-17 is currently involved in the rescue mission, launched after the UK Government decided to offer evacuation to British nationals in the wartorn country.

The aircraft left RAF Brize Norton last Thursday, and has been involved in collecting people from South Sudan’s capital, Juba.

The flight was made at the request of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, which is coordinating the evacuation, prompted by security issues in the African state.

RAF chief of staff for operations, Air Vice-Marshal Sean Reynolds, said: “This again demonstrates the Royal Air Force’s ability to react swiftly and effectively to protect and assist British people worldwide.

“Throughout 2013, wherever there has been an issue demanding a UK response, there has been an RAF aircraft.”