Call goes out for flip-flops and t-shirts

9:18am Sunday 11th May 2008

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TROOPS serving in Afghanistan have thanked Prestwood residents for sending home comforts to the war torn Middle East country.

Nearly 150 boxes have been sent out by members of the Prestwood Evening WI since February.

The Prestwood group started receiving thank-you letters back from the 23rd Regiment and the 20th Paratroop Regiment within three weeks of the first batch being sent out.

Val Corteen, who coordinates the delivery of the boxes, said: "They operate in difficult conditions and they are very pleased to receive the gifts.

"It brings a little bit of home comfort to the troops.

"At least they know the people at home are thinking of them."

The boxes contain items such as cakes, biscuits, sweets, toiletries, games and books.

Bread mix was also sent out to troops as boiling temperatures in Afghanistan make it possible to cook the mixture simply by leaving it outside.

Mrs Corteen, a housewife from Rosetree Close, said she was "overwhelmed" by the show of support from Prestwood residents who had donated goods for the boxes left in village shops.

"I'm very grateful and would like to thank the people of Prestwood for all the support we've had for the WI," she said.

"The members have been absolutely super, and Mr Chacker at the post office has been marvellous, really helpful."

She added: "Each box gets a little handwritten note wishing them well. It's a bit of home from home for them.

"Some of them are only 18, 19 or 20-year-old lads who have only just left home."

The group is now looking for further items requested by the sweltering troops - flip-flops and t-shirts.