TWENTY soldiers were sent packing from Marchwood Military Port to a nearby supermarket in the name of charity.

The lads spent a day packing bags for customers at Asda in Totton, raising more than £1,250 towards the Chelsea Pensioners' Appeal.

As much as £35m is needed over the next four years to rebuild and renovate the Royal Hospital in Chelsea, London.

Staff Sergeant Kevin McDonnell, of the 17 Port and Maritime Regiment based at Marchwood, told the Daily Echo: "A couple of people said we should come in every day to put smiles on people's faces. We had a great time chatting away with all the customers."

Staff Sgt McDonnell is planning to organise more events to raise money for the appeal in the coming months, including raffles and functions.

Any hotels, restaurants or other businesses wishing to support him by donating a raffle prize should contact him on 023 8066 4236.