TROOPS serving in war-torn Afghanistan over Christmas have collected festive gifts from two generous Flintshire women.
Barbara Hammond and Karen Roberts, who both work for the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board in Mold, collected 146 boxes of gifts for the 2nd Yorkshire Battalion.
Health board colleagues, pupils and teachers at Ysgol Bryn Coch, Mold, workers at Mondi Packaging, Exclusive Hair and Beauty Hairdressers in Broughton and St Peter’s Church and the Job Centre in Pwllheli helped the pair reach their impressive total.
They filled the boxes with sweets, magazines, toothbrushes, soap and other Christmas gifts.
Barbara, who lives in Broughton, said: “Last year Karen organised boxes for the RAF in Afghanistan, which were sent by post.
“This year, we agreed that we would send them out to the 2nd Yorkshire Battalion.
My husband used to serve in that regiment and we still go on lots of reunions and marches.
“We were hoping for 20 boxes but the response has been absolutely magnificent.”
The boxes were collected on Friday by soldiers from the battalion’s Rear Party, based in Weeton Barracks, Preston.
They will be addressed to individual soldiers and will be taken to Brize Norton, for onward shipment by the RAF.
Barbara added: “We cannot thank the people involved enough for their generosity and time – it has been overwhelming and I am sure the soldiers will be impressed with the people of North Wales at their thoughtfulness and kind wishes.
“We all wish them all a peaceful Christmas and a safe return to their families.”