Free parcel service for frontline troops

Royal Mail is proud to announce that it will be making special arrangements for a free parcel service to British troops in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Royal Mail’s Chairman, Allan Leighton, said: "Royal Mail wants to see our frontline troops get as much support as possible.

"Royal Mail’s postmen are already serving in many military bases, including in Afghanistan, helping provide postal services to the armed forces and we know how vitally important it is for frontline troops to get parcels from their loved ones at home.

"We're now urgently working with the British Forces Post Office to set up special arrangements to start as soon as possible for a free parcel service until Christmas so that friends and family can send free parcels to Afghanistan and Iraq. We'll be making an announcement with further details within days."

General Sir Richard Dannatt, Chief of the General Staff and the head of the British Army, said: “I am delighted by the support shown by Royal Mail, and extremely grateful; this decision to provide a free parcel service to troops serving in Iraq and Afghanistan will mean a great deal to our soldiers and to their families.”

Royal Mail added that it would be pleased to review with the Ministry of Defence how the free parcel service might be maintained after Christmas.