My name is Graham and I am based in Afghanistan with the Apache helicopter force. We have received numerous packets of shortbread from yourself . I wish to say thank you for showing we are not forgotten out here especially during this festive time.

The shortbread have been shared out amongst the Apache groundcrew and been devoured at a startling rate that would amaze Baxterbear. There is nothing better for the groundcrew to come in at 4 in the morning after sitting under a helicopter disc at a windchill temperature of minus 7 for 20 minutes and having a brew with a few shortbread before going out again.

The Baxterbears you sent out with the shortbread are worn on the ground crew coveralls so he is always in the thick of the action. I am sorry to say that due to his size and for reasons of flight safety he cannot go flying in case he goes for a wonder in the cockpit and gets stuck in the controls. I hope he understands.