The 500 UK troops have been given a total of £500 for their celebrations

British troops in Afghanistan have been allocated only £1 a head for Christmas celebrations by penny-pinching defence chiefs.

While US soldiers have been sent eight Christmas trees, numerous turkeys, decorations, gifts and will have a special screening of the new Star Wars film, the 500 UK troops have been given a total of £500 for their celebrations.

“The contrast between the American and British approach is staggering,” said a British officer stationed in Kabul. “As an army we don’t have as much money as the US, but even the Danish and Mongolians seem to be doing more.”

As Theresa May paid tribute to the forces in her Christmas message, one soldier said morale was suffering: “They haven’t even sent us enough for a coffee. The