I'M writing to the Post as the area co-ordinator for Bristol, on behalf of the Support Our Soldiers Organisation, to ask if readers would be able to support our Christmas Parcels Appeal 2008.

Each year since 2003, SOS has sent Christmas parcels out to the British troops serving in Iraq and Afghan- istan. Last year, thanks to the overwhelming generosity of both companies and individuals, we were able to send more than 15,000 packages.

These parcels mean a great deal to the recipients because they represent the support and goodwill of the British public and people other than their own families. This can very clearly be seen from the pictures of the parcels being delivered last year and extracts from the hundreds of thank you letters received, which are shown on our website www.supportoursoldiers.co.uk.

Each Christmas box contains: Santa hat, selection box, sweets, Christmas cake, Christmas pudding, sauce sachet, nuts/raisins, crisps/ snacks, lollipop, biscuits, drinks sachet, jam/marmalade, chewing gum, toiletry item, puzzle book, socks/undies, notepad and pen, balloon and a small gift.

All items must fit into a standard shoe box (size 5/6) – travel or mini sizes are ideal. Parcels cost about £5 each to put together.

I got involved with SOS because my daughter joined the army in 2007. It is not about the war or whether you support it or not, but our troops. I send parcels out all year round and have had many letters back from the soldiers to say thank you.

I really hope readers can help.

Kim Duddridge, SOS area co-ordinator Bristol. kimd@supportoursoldiers.co.uk www.justgiving.com/Support_our_ Soldiers_Bristol