Parcels for troops campaign a success

From the The Argus, first published Wednesday 14th Nov 2007.

A campaign to secure free deliveries from relatives to loved ones serving in Iraq and Afghanistan has been successful.

Two Sussex mothers were heavily involved with the campaign in the county collecting petition signatures to send to military top brass and postal bosses.

The Government and Royal Mail have now caved in and agreed to stump up the cost of postage.

Sue Smith and Naomi Wort, 45, of Green Lane, Crawley, successfully argued for the postage charge to be dropped so they could send morale-boosting food and present parcels the thousands of miles to war zones.

Police officer Mrs Smith, 41, of Western Avenue, Polegate, who sends parcels out to her son Lance Corporal Carl Moir, 21, in Afghanistan, said: "It's a fantastic announcement and commitment from them.

"I was surprised when it was made."

The original deal allowing the free parcels was due to end on December 7. It will now be extended indefinitely for as long as the two campaigns last.

Announcing the decision this week, Defence Secretary Des Browne said: "The introduction of free post in the summer has been a real success with both families and service personnel and I am just delighted that we have been able to come to an agreement with Royal Mail that will ensure the continuation of this valued service.

"I am very grateful to Royal Mail for their support for our troops."

Royal Mail boss Adam Crozier added: "I'm very proud that Royal Mail will continue to play a key role in making it as easy as possible for families and friends to send gifts and home comforts to their loved ones on the front line.

"The messages we've received from men and women at the front tell us how much they value parcels from home and we're delighted to work with the British Forces Post Office to ensure a free service continues."

Mrs Smith and Mrs Wort are now busy organising donations to send to troops who do not have relatives able to send packages.

They are looking for non-monetary gifts such as sweets, crisps, shower gel and other items including letters of support.

Mrs Smith added: "We are asking people to donate, not money but gifts. If people could contact me I will be able to email them a list of what can be given and we'll come and collect it ready to send out."

The pair had enlisted the help of Eastbourne Army Cadets to help collect more signatures for the campaign but instead they will now help pack the gifts ready for the delivery to troops this Christmas and the New Year.

For more information about the campaign visit www.parcels43.co.uk To make donations to troops contact Mrs Smith on 07925 126605 or email sue.smith123@hotmail.com What affect will this announcement have on people you know serving abroad? Tell us below.

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