SIR,

On behalf of the Gwent Branch of Cats Protection, I would like to thank everyone who has kindly supported us again this year.

We are very grateful to the Monmouthshire Beacon for publicising our fundraising events and special features; the many caring people in the area who have adopted 328 of our beautiful cats and kittens; all who have made time to attend our events and helped to raise funds to pay for food, litter and the huge veterinary bills that we incur; and everyone who has so generously donated money, food, blankets, bric-a-brac, prizes and refreshments.

The downturn in the economy has resulted in the loss of so many homes and jobs for people in our area and many cats have, in turn, become victims too.

We have seen a greatly increased number of cats suddenly becoming homeless this year, so I would like to say a special 'thank you' to those who, in these difficult times, have taken our needy cats into their homes and given them a second chance of a happy life.

I hope that your support, so appreciated by us all, will continue so that we can help the many hundreds of desperate cats and kittens throughout Gwent and the surrounding area, in the coming year.

We have been overwhelmed by the generosity and kindness shown to us and we are very grateful for any contribution you have made. Thank you again and a Merry Christmas from us all.

Loretta Kedward

(Gwent Branch Cats Protection )