A brother and sister who teamed up to collect and deliver boxes of goodies for British troops in Afghanistan have thanked everyone who has contributed.

Royal British Legion member Mary Lister and her brother, Tommy Thompson, originally began the initiative to send shoeboxes to soldiers from the Yorkshire Regiment.

They said they had received so much support they could continue to receive and assemble parcels into the New Year.

Mrs Lister said she was grateful to all the people who had come forward with completed boxes, donated individual items or offered cash sums.

She said she had the names and locations of soldiers on tour in Afghanistan, allowing her and her brother to send goods off to individuals.

“We sent off 80-odd parcels this week,” she said. We’ve picked up 22 boxes from a Methodist church and another 22 from the Women’s Institute of Thwaites Brow.

“We’ve not even yet spent the £50 cheque we were given by the Yorkshire Volunteers.

“We’ve received letters back from some of the soldiers thanking us, which is really nice.”

People can contact her for information on how to drop off their donations on 01535 215711.