MoD's Christmas parcels warning

People in Lincolnshire are being asked to donate money to charity instead of sending Christmas presents to un-named servicemen and women this year.

The Ministry of Defence (MoD) says the free post service is designed only for the friends and families of those serving overseas.

It says last year 21,000 sacks of mail weighing more 170 tonnes were sent to Afghanistan in the Christmas run-up.

It says such large volumes can delay the delivery of personal mail.

As a result, servicemen and women away from their families over the festive period could face a delay in mail which was of great importance, the MoD said.

For that reason only letters and parcels addressed to specific named individuals will be accepted.

The MoD suggested donations could be given to UK4U Thanks! the Royal British Legion and other similar charities instead.