TWO members of staff at RAF Benson joined actor Ross Kemp in helping ensure British troops are not forgotten this Christmas.

Senior aircraftsmen Jenny Ellis and Laura Gillender were at Tower Bridge in London to help the former EastEnders star load Christmas boxes from forces charity UK4UThanks for troops serving abroad.

SAC Gillender said: “It’s important and a morale boost for forces overseas to know there is a real connection with home — a sign that people care enough to be thinking of us at that time.” Her husband received a Christmas box when he was serving in Afghanistan.

She said: “On Christmas Day when the box arrived he was surprised but really chuffed. He loved the things inside, especially the £15 phone card.”

The charity is sending 24,500 boxes to all armed forces personnel serving overseas this Christmas.


Kemp, who went on the front line with troops in Afghanistan for a Sky TV series, said: “It gave me a great insight into what life is like for the men and women of our armed forces.

“I know how much it will mean to them to receive these boxes and the messages of support and thanks from the public that come with them.”

Defence Minister Kevan Jones said: “The Christmas box campaign is a fantastic way for the nation to show its thanks and appreciation of the armed forces.

“The Ministry of Defence is pleased to support the charity’s work.”

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Published on 15 December 2008