IT was a very merry festive period for the soldier boys out in Kosovo all thanks to their pen pals in Warrington.

Servicemen and women serving with the Royal Engineers in Kosovo have sent a big "thank you" to the readers of the GUARDIAN, for responding to an appeal in the paper to send Christmas cards.

They also sent a special thank you to the Second Warrington Cub pack.

In a New Year statement the regiment said: "The efforts made by the people of Warrington were outstanding and very much appreciated by the soldiers of the regimental group."

It added: "Everyone who remained in Kosovo over Christmas and New Year enjoyed the festive season in the knowledge that the people back home were thinking about them at this special time when families are together.

"The continued support of the British people for its Armed Forces, especially those deployed overseas, in sometimes dangerous circumstances, is appreciated by all who serve their country.

"Thank you all once again for the kind thoughts and good wishes that you sent to our soldiers in Kosovo to brighten up their Christmas.

"We hope you all had a great Christmas and on behalf of the commanding officer and all ranks of 26 Engineer Regiment Group, we wish you all the very best for the new year."