The Taleban have scored a festive blow against British troops in Afghanistan by blowing up a supply lorry packed with Christmas turkeys.

In the latest in a string of attacks on convoys heading for troops through Pakistani tribal areas, a consignment of frozen birds weighing 325kg was destroyed by a roadside explosion.

The turkey breasts were intended for troops stationed at Camp Bastion, Britain's main base in Helmand, where up to 3,000 soldiers will spend the festive season.

However, the Christmas dinner will still be going ahead after the Ministry of Defence flew out replacement birds.

Regimental Catering Warrant Officer Nick Townley, who is in charge of organising Christmas dinner for British troops in Afghanistan, said: "Unfortunately one of our Christmas wagons got taken out so a lot of turkeys had to be flown in especially."

The attack was the latest in a string of pro-Taleban explosions targeting convoys heading through Pakistan to supply Nato troops in Afghanistan.

The raids have led to a strike by the Pakistani lorry drivers' association, who say the route is now too dangerous in which to operate.

Camp Bastion is staffed by 2,500 to 3,000 troops, who will be joined by 2,000 others stationed around Helmand on Christmas Day.

Soldiers at the base will eat turkey rolls as well as roast pork, gammon, beef, cranberry sauce and a side-helping of Brussels sprouts. Christmas cakes, Christmas puddings, mince pies and after eights will also be served.

The total cost of feeding the troops in Bastion’s four dining rooms is £10,265 or £3.42 each.

There will be no brandy, however, with Camp Bastion a dry area. However, WO Townley joked: "It wouldn’t have made it in there anyway."

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