EADT NEWS ESSEX Pix to go with story slugged Colonel in SXNEWS for 11/09/09 Cap: Colonel Tom Fleetwood, Colchester’s new Garrison Commander PICTURE Cpl Rupert Frere RLC 10.9.09 EADT 11.9.09

GENEROUS members of the public wanting to show support for a town’s war-bound paratroopers have been told the Army will no longer be accepting goodwill parcels and gifts.

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The majority of Colchester’s 3,500 soldiers will be deploying to Afghanistan in September for another six-month tour.

It will be the third time the troops of 16 Air Assault Brigade have returned to Helmand Province since 2006.

Traditionally well-wishers have sent gift parcels of goodies, including useful items such as tooth brushes and soap, as well and treats like chocolate and sweets to help boost morale.

But now the Army is calling time on the goodwill parcels, saying they have the potential to swamp the mail system and that getting them to the frontline could put men in danger.

Garrison Commander Colonel Tom Fleetwood said: “Most people are aware that logistic supply in an operational environment is limited and dangerous, particularly in Afghanistan because the last leg of the journey is usually by helicopter. The mail system can be swamped by the public’s generosity with the result that the all important personal mail from families becomes significantly delayed.

“The decision to accept only personal mail will enable the prioritisation of resources for transporting essential combat supplies such as ammunition, medical supplies, food and equipment as well as personal mail.” People wishing to show their support have been asked to send donations instead.

“Colchester Garrison enjoys a unique relationship with the local population and we are extremely grateful for the consistently high levels of support we have received,” he added.

“This support means a great deal to service personnel, particularly to those preparing for deployment to Afghanistan in September.

“I would like to take the opportunity to let our supporters know that the operational mail system will no longer accept general goodwill parcels from members of the public.

“We recognise and acknowledge with gratitude the desire for members of the public to support our personnel on operations and this support is greatly appreciated and I would like to offer alternative ways in which the support can be demonstrated,” he said.

Every serviceman and woman on operations during Christmas will still receive a gift box from the uk4u charity supported by the Ministry of Defence (MoD).

The MoD has also worked with the charity SSAFA Forces Help to set up an operational welfare fund to raise money for projects to improve life for troops serving on the frontline.

Commanders on the ground decide how they want the money to be spent whether its on luxury items through to major projects.

A guidance pack with more information about how the troops can be supported is available from Louise Schenk-Cooper, telephone 01206 815127.

james.hore@eadt.co.uk