A SOLDIER has offered his personal thanks to those who sent treats to troops in Afghanistan.

Private Ben Roberts, 26, now back from frontline duties, visited Pints'n'Litres off-licence to thank Roy Hudson and his wife, Jan, whose shoebox campaign has so far sent 30 parcels of goodies to the troops.

Private Roberts, who lives in Danbury, got to know manager Roy two years ago, after meeting him while visiting friends in Laindon.

He said: "Before we left, Roy and Jan said they'd write, but to see this lot turn up was overwhelming.

"Where we're based, we have no amenities at all, so it really does mean a lot. We've shared everything that's been sent.

"The sweets have been a great morale boost with all the sugar. I want to thank everyone on behalf of all of us."