Simon Peck, who served in the first battalion of Coldstream Guards in the 1980s, was approached by Captain Dale in Kabul, Afghanistan to help support the 'hearts and minds' initiative, which seeks to promote goodwill towards Afghan communities.

Mr Peck, who is now a member of the Northampton branch of the Coldstream Guards Association, said: "The initiative is to improve Afghan attitudes towards our troops because this in turn helps save our troops' lives.

"The soldiers give out clothes, stationery and toiletries to residents to change their attitudes towards the soldiers."

Members of the Kabul Patrols Company of the first battalion of Coldstream Guards have asked for stationery, warm clothing, toiletries such as toothpaste, and cash donations to help soldiers win over public opinion in Afghanistan.

The regiment is also looking for volunteers to be pen pals for Afghan children.

Military vehicles will collect the donations at a later date and anyone who would like to help can send donations to Coldstream Guards Afghanistan Appeal, Berry Cottage, Ivy Lane, Finedon, Northants NN9 5NE.