Troops serving in Afghanistan could find presents from Watford residents in their Christmas stockings, following a campaign by the town's Conservative Party.

Richard Harrington, the Tory prospective parliamentary candidate for Watford, is encouraging residents to donate presents to soldiers by dropping off “shoe-box” parcels crammed with festive goodies at a number of collection points around the town.

They will then be delivered to troops serving in Afghanistan.

Mr Harrington said: “I really hope that as many people as possible will get involved in this. Putting together a little box of goodies is a great way for showing appreciation for our troops out in Afghanistan. We don’t expect people to send lavish packages, just a few items that the soldiers will really appreciate.

“It will be a great way to keep their spirits up while they are away from their families this Christmas.”

The deadline to drop off packages is Friday, November 27, to allow for delivery in time for Christmas.

For more information about what to send, packaging regulations and to find out your nearest drop-off point, telephone 01923 296796 or visit www.richardforwatford.com.