Send festive cheer to heroes overseas

Christmas is traditionally a time spent in the company of those we care for most of all - but many families in our region are missing that special loved one.

IPSWICH: ChristmasCCHcigufghoihrRISTMAS Christmas is traditionally a time spent in the company of those we care for most of all - but many families in our region are missing that special loved one.

While the seasonal festivities continue today, there are more than 1,000 Suffolk men and women who would be thrilled to hear your messages of good will.

So spare a little festive cheer for the region's troops in Afghanistan and support our heroes risking their lives for their country at this time by reminding them we are behind them.

Support for The Evening Star's campaign has come so far from senior army officers and soldiers based here and in Afghanistan.

Now, the uncle of Private Aaron McClure, an Ipswich soldier with the 1st Battalion The Royal Anglian Regiment who was one of three soldiers killed in Helmand in August 2007, has given his backing to the campaign and encouraged the people of Suffolk to show their full support.

Alan McClure said: “This is an excellent way for messages of support to get through to local people serving in Afghanistan.

“It's great for their morale to know people are thinking about them at Christmas.

“This appeal is a great idea, especially for the Royal Anglians who we want to stay safe and know that they have our support.”

To leave your messages of support visit www.eveningstar.co.uk, click on Heroes and leave your message.

Soldiers based in Afghanistan can then log on to the website to receive their messages in time for Christmas.

Are you a serving service man or woman? Tell us your story - write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN or e-mail eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk