24,500 ‘square stockings�?as the boxes are affectionately called were distributed to all Forces on an operational tour of duty overseas, the civilians supporting them, and personnel in hospital, including those in Iraq, Afghanistan and as far away as the Falkland Islands.

Following on from the 1914 gesture from the 17 year old Princess Mary, who started the idea of presenting a gift from the nation for everyone wearing the King’s uniform and serving overseas on Christmas Day, forces charity UK4U Thanks! raises money and sponsorship throughout the year to provide these boxes as a way of saying thank you to our Armed Forces and to let them know that people are thinking of them over Christmas.

The boxes are filled with a variety of items of everyday use, with some aimed at putting a smile on the faces of those who open them. It is never easy being away from loved ones at Christmas and these boxes are a way of showing our thanks to those serving overseas at Christmas, and a timely reminder that they are not forgotten and their efforts appreciated

Corporal Stephen Billings, 28, of the Adjutant Generals�?Corps (Staff and Personnel Support) serving with 52 Infantry Brigade in Lashkar Gah, Helmand province, said:

"They are excellent. Great to know so many people are thinking about and supporting us."

Signaller Matthew Kenworthy, 21, 237 Signal Squadron, 14 Signal Regiment serving with 40 Commando Royal Marines in Kajaki, added:

"A great surprise. A million miles from home but still people are thinking about us; especially at this time of year when we are missing are family and friends so much."

Squadron Leader Andy Bryne, 52, RAF, Defence College of Aeronautical Engineering, Cramwell serving with 52 Infantry Brigade, said:

"The box was very good. The fact it is reusable is fantastic, extremely handy. My daughter will love it when I return from Afghanistan, especially because it is something I received here in theatre. Thank you so much."

Cpl Carly Hudson, 27, Adjutant Generals�?Corps (Staff and Personnel Support) serving with 4th Battalion Royal Artillery, 52 Infantry Brigade in Lashkar Gah, said:

"So much better than the last time I got one. Extremely useful and thoughtful and the people involved, thank you."

Star of stage and screen Jennifer Ellison and Minister for the Armed Forces Bob Ainsworth helped 30 service personnel send off the last of the boxes in November.

Mr Ainsworth said:

"Christmas is a time to be spent with friends and family, and it is therefore hard for all those overseas and away from home. Every year we receive huge support from both the general public and corporate organisations and we are pleased to be able to work so closely with uk4u-Thanks! This scheme means so much to so many people, both those who give and those who receive, and we are grateful to everyone who continues to show that while some of our Armed Forces may not be at home, they are certainly not forgotten.

"I want to thank all the sponsors, and the staff of the Defence Equipment and Support organisation, who make this scheme possible."