WITH response to the despondent mother with son in the Gulf (SOS from boys in Gulf).

As the mother of a son in the last Gulf War, I would just like to say that all parcels are greatly appreciated by the service men and woman, especially personal items. Food is normally adequate, even though a percentage may be dried. If one is not too fussy, this should not prove a problem.

I know that "special goodies" are always wanted. This leads me to the question -- why is there no advertising of companies collecting boxes/packages for our forces this time? In the last war, I and many friends, family and work colleagues, sent out parcels. These were collected from our workplaces by lorry, at no extra cost, with quick response and service. On the whole, all forces staff received them. I even had 'thank you' letters back from male and female veterans. So what has happened this time? Where is the help for our soldiers?

Mrs L Barker

Hayes

Middlesex