Marie Smith, organiser of the Chester branch of Support Our Soldiers (SOS), has spent the last month wrapping donations from the public to send to troops stationed in Iraq and Afghanistan.

The organisation says it is grateful for the local support it has received but is appealing for further help.

"We are trying to get people to support them and donate items," Marie said.

"Most of the parcels that have been sent have already arrived and more are expected in the next few days.

"It's important to remind them they have some support back home because the lack of it is unbelievable."

SOS was formed in 2003 and Marie has played a big part in the charity, operating out of her Blacon home and contacting local businesses to gather support.

"More people should get involved. I contacted loads of businesses and only one donated any items. It's disgusting. There are so many businesses in Chester.

"People can still donate items and although there's no guarantee they will get there for Christmas Day, they will still get there," she said.

Marie said she would like to say a big thank you to the Chester branch of Penhaligon's, the Pensioners Club in Saltney and RAF Sealand, who have supported SOS.

The most useful products to send to troops are toiletries, such as shampoo and shower gel, cereal bars, wet wipes, socks, tea and coffee.

"Basically, any home comforts and anything that will remind them of home," she said.

Items can be dropped off at a storage depot on the Greyhound Park, Sealand Road, next to B&Q.

Companies can also hand donations into the Army Careers office on Watergate Street or at The Castle.

For more information, visit www.supportoursoldiers.co.uk