LOCALLY-produced free range turkey will be on the menu for injured servicemen and women this Christmas.

The birds are being donated as part of a national ‘Turkeys for Troops’ appeal launched by the NFU’s UK Turkeys website in collaboration with Connect Packaging.

More than 100 birds will be delivered to seven locations around the country including the Personnel Recovery Unit at Catterick Garrison in North Yorkshire.

Lt Col Mel Pears, commanding officer of the Catterick unit said: “I would like to, on behalf of every soldier under my command, say thank you to the NFU.

“It will provide happiness and comfort to each family during what will be a reflective and emotional time.

“I would like to add my personal thanks to those involved with providing this gift - knowing that people are thinking of our injured troops at this time makes a real difference.”

NFU regional director Barney Kay said: “We are extremely grateful for the generosity shown by our local turkey producers, who themselves have had a difficult time of it this year.”

“They epitomise the spirit of our Farming Delivers for Christmas campaign which aims to celebrate the quality and diversity of British produce at the heart of our festive celebrations."