A FORMER landlord is hoping to raise thousands of pounds to send Christmas boxes to soldiers in the Gulf.

Mike Igoe has organised a night of entertainment with drag artist Miss Sugar Plum topping the bill to raise money for the 200 boxes.

The boxes, which cost £5 to £6, will contain essentials such as toothpaste, combs and deodorants, items which he said were not easy to get hold of for the soldiers.

The former landlord, who used to run the Foresters Arms in Todmorden Road, Burnley, said he wanted to do something to change the image of Burnley, which is often portrayed as being a troubled town.

Mike, who now works as a relief manager, said: “I used to send parcels to the lads in the Gulf and decided to do it again.

“I am fed up of hearing people saying we are full of druggies. There are good-hearted people here in Burnley and I want everyone to see this side.

“We want to put in luxuries that we take for granted which the lads can’t get out there.

“I want to get children involved in packing the boxes and the more money we raise the more boxes we can send.

“Hopefully at least 200 lads will get a special Christmas present and they will know people are thinking of them.

“I will liaise with the army office and they will ensure the boxes get to the local lads before Christmas.”

Mike plans to contact busi-nesses for prize donations and is looking for people to help out with the committee to help raise the money.

The Gulf War Support Team will meet every Tuesday at Burnley Miners’ Clubt.

The concert, on Friday, November 14, at the club, will also feature singers Anneka and Amber Storm.

Anyone interested in taking part or buying tickets can get information from the club in Plumbe Street or by calling 01282 422791.