SUPERMARKET shoppers in Minehead have been adding extra items to their trolleys in an initiative designed to support British troops in Afghanistan.

The town's Army Cadets and their families have been backing a scheme led by local woman Karen Sudron that encourages shoppers to add products that won't make a big difference to the bill, but will make a big difference to the serving troops.

Minehead Platoon Commander Andy Player said: "Our parent unit is the Rifles and the cadets jumped at the chance to show their support for Rifles soldiers currently on a very difficult deployment in Afghanistan.

"They and their families have been collecting items such as deodorant, chewing gum, sweets, dehydrated meals and even treats for the dogs who save many lives by sniffing out explosive devices."

Mr Player said the items were often difficult for soldiers to come by but made living in such harsh conditions more bearable.

"It is also important that our troops know that people back home appreciate the work they do, and regardless of personal views about the war, that the public support them.

"I would like to thank the cadets and their families, Karen for co-ordinating this initiative and the Factory Shop in Minehead for supplying the boxes for the goods to be sent out in."

The items collected will be sent out to the troops with letters from the cadets.

Anyone aged between 12 and 18 interested in joining the Minehead platoon is welcome to go along to the cadet hut in Townsend Road on Mondays or Thursdays from 7pm to 9pm.

Pictured from left are Cadet Tom Everett, Karen Sudron and Corporal Emma Marlow with just some of the items collected.

Photo: Steve Guscott