MORALE boosting parcels are on their way to British troops in Iraq after a Darlington pub raised more than £1,000.

Lesley Johnson, landlady of Hogans in Victoria Road, has raised £1,120 for the troops so far, thanks to the efforts of her staff and customers.

The money was raised over two weeks of fundraising events including raffles, quizzes, a darts knock out, party night and collections.

Many of the pub's staff and customers have relatives and friends serving in the armed forces.

Mrs Johnson said: "One of our customer's brothers has just come back from Iraq, also our barmaid has a son in the Army and everyone who uses the pub knows of someone involved.

"We will phone Catterick Garrison to see what the soldiers want, which might include food items and magazines.

"We will be keeping the collection boxes on the bar and I would like to thank all of our customers for their help and support."