Members of Silk Brass in Cheshire has given the troops serving in Afghanistan a little bit of home comfort after it served up more than 20 boxes of goodies to be flown to the country.

Father Ted Massive

The band took part in the 'Father Ted Massive' scheme, a national campaign collecting boxes of goods for British forces and Silk Brass’ contribution will be airlifted to the 4th Battalion 'The Rifles'.

Now the troops will receive 'luxury' items reminding them of home such as toothpaste, soap, T-shirts and socks along with games – and even in one box a yo-yo.

We are quite amazed at the response and the organisers were delighted with the number of boxes we handed over to be flown to AfghanistanSilk Brass

Rallied round

Band spokeswoman Sue Howell told 4BR: "When we realised that many of the every day things we take for granted, even toothpaste, can be a luxury to the troops serving on the front line, everyone rallied round and bought or begged items from relatives and friends."

She added: "We are quite amazed at the response and the organisers were delighted with the number of boxes we handed over to be flown to Afghanistan. I am sure they will be well received."