London - A lorry load of Christmas turkeys for British troops in Afghanistan has fallen victim to roadside bomb planted by Taliban insurgents, it was reported Friday.

The frozen birds were completely destroyed in an explosion on route from Pakistan to British headquarters at Camp Bastion in volatile Helmand province in southern Afghanistan.

The Ministry of Defence in London said a consignment of replacement birds had been flown out to make up for the loss and ensure that the traditional Christmas dinner for troops can go ahead. (dpa)