ABINGDON’S “Friday Club” spend their time and hard- earned cash paying tribute to our brave serving soldiers.

But the members of this special group deserve heartfelt thanks from all of us.

Most of the chaps involved have served in the military and know first-hand what it is like to be away from home in a conflict situation.

So they know exactly what the parcels they pack whilst supping a pint on a Friday afternoon will mean to the serving soldiers who receive them.

Yes, the creature comforts such as toiletries, sweets and magazines will give soldiers a deserved boost.

But the parcels, paid for by the pensions and savings of the men who pack them, are so much more than that.

The box will remind serving soldiers that veterans of previous conflicts understand what they are going through, are thinking of them and are prepared to support them in whatever way they can.

It is clear from the letters sent back to the Friday Club that 11 EOD really appreciate the efforts.

So today, we pay tribute to the sterling service of the Friday Club and our Royal British Legion .

They are giving time, money and above all thought, to supporting serving personnel.

And, when the worst happens, they lead every repatriation tribute to our fallen heroes come hell or high water.

These boys really are the best of the best.