SIR,

I would like to thank the kind people of Monmouth and the surrounding area for their generosity and support of the ABF The Soldiers' Charity Summer Fair held at The Castle on Thursday 21st July.

We had a good selection of stalls and goods, from smoked fish and children's toys, to plants and jewellery, all made or sourced locally.

The charity fairground organ was a great hit with the children, for which we offer grateful thanks.

The Soldiers' Charity gives lifetime support to serving and retired soldiers and their families.

Recently, we have seen a 30 per cent year-on-year rise in applications from soldiers and we currently raise £7 million to cover their needs.

As a result of their current operations throughout the world, it is anticipated that requests for help will rise significantly.

The Soldiers' Charity aims to increase its fundraising to £14 million by 2015 to ensure that all those who need help will get it.

Thank you again Monmouth.

Naomi Wright

(Hon Secretary, ABF

The Soldiers' Charity)