SIR, One of the best jobs we have to do, each year, after Monmouth's Candlelit Procession, is to thank the huge number of local people who help us make it happen. We appreciate all the time and skill so freely given. Judging by the enormous crowds who risked the dire weather forecast, to be there, a big proportion of Monmouth does, too. This year we also held Sunday's tree decorating event at the Oldway Centre, in partnership with Monmouth Rotary. This new celebration was also well attended. Everyone's contributions of baubles and messages are now twinkling in the wind, for all to see. Father Christmas arrived on a magnificent sleigh, bringing a seemingly endless supply of sweets. Thank you, everyone. On Thursday night, as the traffic was stilled, the sight of the huge crowd bearing candles up the sparkling street, singing O Come All Ye Faithful was wonderful. Everyone's safety was ensured by marshals from Monmouth Cricket Club plus more volunteers: Les, Vivien, Louise, John, Paul, Tim, Hannah and Phil who backed up the councillors and the professional traffic managers. It is not an easy role, requiring great patience and judgement, thank you. St John's Ambulance, local PCSOs and police officers were also a re- assuring presence, with such high numbers. If you, as a driver, had to wait for the procession to pass, your patience was also appreciated. The staging in Agincourt Square was the result of an amazing team made up of Mike Geddes and staff from Bridges, HMSG and councillors. Shire Hall staff Aileen, Clare, Tristan, Jordan and Tom not only organised the sound system, but also seating, allowing the snow machines at the Shire Hall, and the loan of their office to Father Christmas. Musical Monmouth is flourishing. The atmospheric sounds of Monmouth Wind Players (students and staff from Monmouth Comprehensive) led the procession up Monnow Street. On their arrival, Monmouth Town Band took up the theme and kept the music warm and strong. Everyone was keen to join in the carol singing, when the musicians were so encouraging and professional. As the weather worsened and we moved under the arches, Sophie and Rachel of RS Harmony were a stunning duo that even had the town band's conductor dancing. The talents of Savoy Youth Theatre were unmistakeable. A real pantomime atmosphere was conjured up, the crowds responding to the sword fight and jokes with gasps and laughter. Thank you so much Sam Densham for your leadership, your nerves of steel and your unbounded enthusiasm. The swirling snow was provided by two extremely generous local businessmen, who wish to remain anonymous. We are so grateful too that Father Christmas and his elf found time to welcome even more small children to his unique and magical grotto this year. The lost children post was run by staff from Little Einsteins nursery who were thankfully not busy. The magnificent Christmas trees in town were provided by Highway Farm Wood Products, and Robert Price as usual provided the concrete stands for them, thank you. The trees were put up for us by Simon and MCC staff, and safety barriers kindly provided once again by Travis Perkins. None of this could have happened without the skills and organisation of our Town Council office staff. Thank you, everybody. Councillor Anthea Dewhurst and Mayor Jane Gunter (Monmouth Town Council)