A LORRY-LOAD of surprises is on its way to the Gulf from the wives of soldiers serving with the Queen's Dragoon Guards.

After a frantic few weeks in the opening phase of the conflict in Iraq, the troops of the Welsh cavalry regiment, based at Catterick Garrison, are now helping the 7th Armoured Brigade patrol the streets of Basra.

Supplies are adequate now that routes to the south are open and transport can move freely around the region.

However, soldiers have been writing home asking for parcels to help spice up meal times.

Maria Botsford, whose husband, Major Matthew Botsford, commands the regiment's A Squadron, said: "I was having a good day on my own at home when I thought: 'Right, what can we do to help?'

"At first, we thought we'd ask around the shops to see if they were prepared to donate anything - but then Lewis and Cooper's really came up trumps.''

The Northallerton store agreed to supply 120 hampers worth about £20 each packed with lightweight treats, including dried fruit, nuts, flapjack and biscuits, tea and a high-energy drink.

The supplies should be with the troops by the end of next week.

"We hope our packs will be a welcome break from army rations and bottled water,'' said Lewis and Cooper general manager Victoria Howard.

Mrs Botsford, who is expecting the couple's fourth child next month, yesterday said she was confident the new partnership she has helped forge will have the desired effect.

"It will be a total surprise,'' she said.

"Morale is high but the soldiers are tired and something like this really can give them a terrific boost.''