Overwhelming demand for the wristbands

There has been an overwhelming demand for the wristbands since the launch of The Northern Echo campaign to support 3 Rifles’ Swift and Bold Wristband appeal, which raises money for the battalion’s injured soldiers and the families of soldiers killed in action.

The newspaper’s offices in Darlington and Bishop Auckland sold out of wristbands within hours of the launch, and dozens more people have reserved wristbands from future deliveries.

Fifty more wristbands were delivered to each office yesterday. Anyone who was not notified of their arrival, will be contacted as soon as another batch arrives.

Peter Barron, the editor of The Northern Echo, said: “The response to this appeal has been astonishing and we are desperately trying to keep pace with demand for the wristbands.

“I am sure it means a great deal to those putting their lives on the line in Afghanistan to know that people back home value their efforts.”

Leeanne Brownson, the widow of Corporal Lee Brownson, from Bishop Auckland, who died on foot patrol with 3 Rifles in Afghanistan, on January 15, is supporting the appeal, along with the Bishop Auckland TA Centre, where Cpl Brownson served as a teenage cadet in the Nineties.

Captain Pete Hill, from the TA centre, thanked people for their support. He warned that the centre had also sold out and was awaiting another delivery.

“The response has been absolutely fantastic, we are so pleased with it,” said Capt Hill, who is a former 3 Rifles quartermaster. “We do not want the enthusiasm and support to go away, so we are urging people to be patient and we will let them know as soon as we have more wristbands to sell.”

Dozens more wristbands are due to arrive at The Northern Echo offices in Darlington and Bishop Auckland, and at the DLI Museum, in Durham City, early next week. In the meantime, people wishing to make a minimum £2 donation can leave their names and contact details at the reception in either office.