Members of the King's Own royal Border Regiment Association have begun packing parcels of goodies to ship overseas - and they hope that future sponsorship will help the scheme to grow.

The parcels are being prepared at Fleetwood King's Own Club with support from the Royal British Legion.

Treasurer of the Legion's Thornton Cleveleys branch, Terry Rogers, said: "We are all veterans who have seen active service.

"We have a special affection for the serving soldiers - it's what we are about.

"We have managed to raise £100 and we will be sending the parcels out at the weekend.

"It's a way of offering support to people out there serving their country and, in some cases, losing their lives.

"The recognition of what our soldiers do is getting better each year and this is something to actively show our appreciation."

There will be 10 parcels in the first batch but the veterans are now seeking sponsorship from local businesses and hope to see the numbers rise considerably.

Items sent will include biscuits, mints, facial wipes, deodorants and DVDs.

Mr Rogers added: "They still have problems getting small luxuries so we thought we would do something about it.

"I served in Northern Ireland in the 70s and it was nice receiving things like local newspapers because it was a sign that people cared and it got me out of the doldrums to receive packages.

"It's always been the case with troops, as far back as the First World War."

Anyone who would like to help the parcels project can contact Mr Rogers on (01253) 770369.