Bexhill High boost troops' morale in Afghanistan

Based in Polegate, Thank The Forces Charity was started in December 2007 by soldier's mum Sue Smith, whilst son Carl was serving in Afghanistan with 36 Engineer Regiment British Army.

Endorsed and backed by the Ministry of Defence and the British Forces Post Office, Sue said Thank The Forces is unique as it has a confidential agreement with the MOD, and is the only local charity to appear on the MOD website as being cleared for sending goodwill, morale, and thanks to British Forces Personnel serving abroad, and in the conflict in Afghanistan.

Keaton Peppiatt from Little Common contacted Sue 2 years ago after he heard about the charity from his mum Kim.

Since then Keaton has worked hard to raise awareness, funds and goods for this worthy cause. Last year he won the 'Woman's Own Children of Courage, Charity fundraiser Award', presented to him by HRH Prince Harry at Westminster Abbey.

Shorty after Keaton started at Bexhill High School, Gunter's Lane site, in September of last year, he launched an appeal within the school for the charity.

The students embraced Thank The Forces Charity with open arms recently despatching over 80 gift boxes to British Forces serving on the front line in Afghanistan.

Keaton helped Sue pack and wrap sweets, treats and letters of morale at the charity's packing unit in Hailsham, Sussex.

Keaton said: "I love helping Thank The Forces Charity and when I leave school I would like to be a military dog handler, I have had lots of letters from the soldiers who enjoy the really nice sweets and treats we send in the boxes."

Sue said: "Keaton is a true star. He gives his time freely and without question and is one of Thank The Forces' most hard working and dedicated volunteers. I would like to thank him and all his friends from Bexhill High School for their support and fantastic array of goodies donated for British Forces serving in Afghanistan."

Sue has worked tirelessly over the last two years to make Thank The Forces a great success. The charity relies solely on the goodwill of the public and the work of unpaid volunteers.

For more information call Sue on 07518 025888 or visit the website at: www.thanktheforces.com