Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service has launched a campaign to boost British Armed Forces serving in Afghanistan.

Firefighters in Newcastle have started a shoebox appeal to bring Festive cheer to troops in the Middle East.

Members of the public are being asked to donate items such as toiletries, savoury snacks, sweets and nuts which will be shipped across in time for Christmas.

Kelvin Chell, Watch Manger at Newcastle, said: "Two of our firefighters here have relatives serving in Afghanistan which really brings home the reality of the war.

"The public reaction to the homecoming parade in Liverpool recently was amazing and very moving. It prompted us to act.

Posters to promote the shoebox campaign are being put on display around Newcastle.

People are advised to donate items wherever they see one of the posters. Alternatively they can leave items at Newcastle and/or Kidsgrove fire station.

"We have arranged for the shoeboxes to be shipped across on December 4th," added Kelvin.

"But people can rest assured if they donate items after this date we will make sure they are in Afghanistan by Christmas."