Queen urges letters for troops

Queen urges letters for troops

The centre is striving to help relatives of service personnel

The Queen has urged youngsters whose parents are serving in the Gulf to write to them.

Visiting an armed services welfare office in London on Tuesday, she said that young people unable to send emails to their parents should write letters instead.

"I've been telling children that they have to learn to write letters again if their can't send their e-mails," the Queen said.

She was visiting the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association (SSAFA) )headquarters in London, where staff have been dealing with calls from worried relatives.

Major General Peter Sheppard, SSAFA's controller, said: "This place has become a conduit of friendly, helpful advice.

"Most vulnerable are the families of reservists and Territorial Army personnel because they do not have the same support as those living in garrisons."

The Queen has been the organisation's patron since 1952.

Royal visit

It is the latest visit by a member of the royal family to help boost morale in the armed forces.

The Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh last week met relatives of service personnel in a visit to Devonport Naval Base.

It is the first time the Queen has spoken out about the British deployment to the Gulf region since the action began, when she sent a personal message to combat troops.

"My thoughts are with you all, and with your families and friends who wait at home for news and pray for your safe return," she said.

"I have every confidence in your professionalism and commitment as you face the challenges before you."

Scottish website

Other initiatives have been launched to help families keep in touch with personnel in the Gulf.

A Scottish website has been set up to help people send messages of support to troops and each other.

It was set up by Ayr mother Agnes Hunter, whose 19-year-old, Scott, is serving with 16 Airborne Assault Brigade.

Defence chiefs have also warned against people sending unaddressed parcels

And at Peterborough Cathedral, children have been encouraged to write messages on paper doves which are arranged on a tree in the cathedral.