Soldier Darren backing 'Shoes for Iraqi Kids' campaign

Private Cruttenden has written to the Observer explaining the lack of basic provisions in Umm Qsar and the danger of children not having shoes.

"I was deployed on operations in the Middle-East two and a half months ago and since then I have been involved in a number of tasks such as force protection, aggressive escorts, humanitarian aids and patrolling the streets of Umm Qsar trying to win the hearts and minds of the local people and reassure them that we are here to help.

"In order to do so my squadron is starting a campaign for second- hand shoes for local children. When we have been out here we have noticed that the kids do not have any shoes and there are a lot of hazardous areas in which these children are walking from day to day."

Each squadron member has been asked to write to their local newspapers and bring the need for second-hand children's shoes to light.

"It does not matter what size they are and all donations will be greatly appreciated."

Unused shoes can be sent to Darren at : Shoes For Kids Campaign, 25121606 PTE Cruttenden, 1 Troop, 187 SQN, 23 Pioneer Regt, Op Telic, BFPO 643.