Liberal Democrats are urging residents wishing to send Christmas treats to troops serving in Afghanistan to defy a Conservative campaign.

Watford Conservatives last week announced plans to collect shoe box-sized parcels filled with festive presents, which would then be sent to servicemen and women abroad.

But Liberal Democrats have suggested it would be better to use recognised charities who have agreements already in place with the British Forces Post Office (BFPO).

Sal Brinton, the Liberal Democrat parliamentary candidate for Watford, said: “The Ministry of Defence's advice is they do not want unsolicited post, mainly because at this time of year friends and families of serving troops will be trying to get their own gifts through a very limited postal service, which can be delayed if large quantities of post are sent by members of the public.

“It would be very sad if soldiers were denied Christmas parcels from their families because strangers had deluged the system.

“Charities such as the Royal British Legion, Help for Heroes and Combat Stress and many others would welcome our support to help current and past servicemen and women.”