A GOLDENHEARTED gran is on a mission to bring some Christmas cheer to our troops…and she’s had help from a bunch of hard working angels too.

Jean McComas, aged 79, has been busy filling shoeboxes with gifts that will be sent out to men and women serving in Afghanistan.

And to underline the support many families have for the servicemen overseas her little grandchildren are writing letters and Christmas cards to the troops that are being included in the boxes.

Bleak Hill pupil Jacob (nine) and Melisssa (six) who suffers from a rare condition called Angelman syndrome that affects speech and development, penned the special messages offering best wishes.

Their grandmother Jean, who lives in sheltered housing at Fry Street, Parr, has been overwhelmed by donations – with a 96-year-old neighbour Elsie Moss among those contributing.

It’s the latest stirring example of St Helens folk showing support for soldiers in Afghanistan, where the death and injury toll continues to rise.

Her daughter Kathryn Adams (44), who lives in Eccleston, told the Star: “Mum is a very active supporter of our armed forces, she supports Help for Heroes and has organised fundraising events to raise money and awareness.

“The Christmas boxes are full of essential items and goodies to try to bring a little cheer to the boys and girls of our armed forces who will be unable to come home to spend the holidays with their families.

“The charity support our soldiers produced a list of the most requested items, this she printed off and asked everyone for their help the response has been quite overwhelming.

“Even a lady of 96 has helped by giving money to mum to buy items to be sent!”