Festive gift for overseas troops

The gifts are thought to be worth about £30 each

Up to 18,000 British troops serving overseas on Christmas Day will receive a gift box.

Bucks-based Far Side Marketing packed and delivered the presents - which are thought to be worth more than £30 each.

An MoD spokesperson said: "I have no doubt that the thousands of military personnel serving on operations across the world will enjoy the gift box."

It is thought to be the first time since World War I that soldiers have received an official Christmas gift.

The original 1914 Christmas Gift Box is said to have been developed by Princess Mary as a gift from the nation to "everyone wearing the King's uniform serving overseas at Christmas".

The brass tin containing cigarettes and chocolate has become a collector's item.