Kindness and consideration shown by soldiers for victims of polio has been repaid with boxes of home-spun treats, already on their way to the Gulf.

Men and women from 2 Signals Regiment based at the city's Imphal Barracks have hosted annual visits by the British Polio Fellowship since 1999, allowing members an insight into their role in the defence of the realm.

As many as 300 are serving in the desert in the Middle East, where they are responsible for the British Army's communications network - and can expect boxes packed with sweets, magazines, books, drinks and toiletries, sent by the friends they have left behind.

"We have visited the barracks for four years now and the regiment always provides a special day for us," said the British Polio Fellowship's Yorkshire regional chairman, Gordon Lumb.

"We have always been met with smiles, consideration and care. When we learned the lads and lasses who looked after us so well were away in the Gulf, we wanted to show them how much we care and wish them well."

17/03/2003