Christmas appeal from Ayrshire troops.

Dec 2 2011 by Lisa Boyle, Ayrshire Post (main ed)

DON’T forget our war heroes this Christmas.

That’s the plea from dedicated Kevin Storrie.

The staff sergeant reservist and his comrades went above and beyond the call of duty to make their point at the weekend.

For as well as collecting gifts to send to troops serving in Afghanistan this festive season, the Queen’s Own Yeomanry based trooped embarked on a gruelling challenge.

They cycled non-stop for 24 hours solid.

The day long spin bike challenge took place at Tesco in Ayr’s Whitletts Road last weekend.

As hard as it was, the troops managed to keep the pedals going from noon on Saturday, until noon on Sunday.

The challenge was to raise awareness and cash for the brave men and women who will spend Christmas in the war zone.

All the money raised at the cycle challenge will be split between several armed forces charities.

The Tesco store is a drop off point for people who wish to send a gift to troops in Afghanistan.

It is crucial that people send parcels to Afghanistan this way, rather than try and post a shoebox of their own accord.

It makes the logistics of getting goodies to the troops safer, cheaper and more efficient.

Kevin said: “It’s difficult times at the moment and we know everyone is pulling the purse strings in, but this community has always been really supportive of us.

“We’ve sent 1500 parcels to Afghanistan over the last few years. The support we’ve had has been constant since we started.”

Kevin launches a Christmas appeal every year. Two years ago he raised £12,000 for troops in Afghanistan by selling Christmas trees.

There is still time to send a gift to a soldier. Simply buy something extra when in Tesco and leave it at the drop off point outside the shop.

Feel free to include an unsealed card with your details and a short message.

It is important not to send aerosols or standard toiletries and the items have to meet strict freight requirements by the RAF who transport the parcels.

Santa hats, decorations, selection boxes, mints, chewing gum, savoury snacks, socks, gloves, pocket games, stationery sets and paperback books are all ideal gifts.