THE father of a soldier serving in Iraq has welcomed a Government announcement that families will now be able to send packages free of charge to their loved ones.

Syd Worgan heard from his son Peter for the first time since the conflict started in a 4am phone call last Thursday to say he was safe.

Peter, 21, from Tow Law, is serving with First Battalion Light Infantry.

Mr Worgan, 58, and his partner Marion have been sending parcels to their son throughout the conflict.

Residents at Baring Court, sheltered accommodation for the elderly, have also put parcels together to send to Peter.

Mr Worgan said: "Peter used to go and visit his grandmother there after school and they wanted to do something for him."

The free service starts today and is aimed at close family and friends of troops who regularly send their loved ones mail.