Next week the Lord Mayor of York and the civic party will be helping to spread Christmas cheer, by giving residents the chance to send Christmas wishes to troops in Afghanistan.

A large card, which was produced by the Lord Mayor offers the public the chance to show support to local soldiers who are on duty in Afghanistan and wish them a merry Christmas. From Wednesday 28 November to Friday 30 November the Mansion House and the Guildhall will host the card and enable the public to show their support.

The Christmas card will be available for people to sign on Wednesday 28 November from 10am – 12noon in the Mansion House. It will also be available on Wednesday afternoon, Thursday afternoon and Friday at the Guildhall reception from 9am – 5pm.

The Lord Mayor of York, Councillor Keith Hyman, said: “I am glad that the residents of York have the chance to show their support and gratitude for the armed forces that are currently stationed in Afghanistan. York has been home to the Army since AD71, when the first Garrison was established in the city, so the city has always held a strong bond with the Army. The card will be sent to Afghanistan to the York soldiers from 2 Signal Regiment, and other local regiments and I am delighted we can help them celebrate Christmas.”