Residents of Usk and patrons of the town's Castle Inn have shown great generosity while collecting Christmas presents for children most in need in Monmouthshire.

Landlady Sharon McAtee has organised collections of Christmas gifts and Easter eggs ever since she arrived at the public house in June 2009.  Donations have risen steadily since then.

In presenting gifts to Monmouthshire's Chairman, County Councillor Maureen Powell, Sharon said: "I'd like to thank the Castle Inn's customers for their overwhelming response and we're delighted to help such a worthy cause".

Councillor Powell added: "I'm very impressed by the continuing generosity of the Castle Inn's staff and customers and very grateful for the gifts.  These will be distributed by the council's social services staff in time to bring joy over Christmas".

Photo; Clockwise from lower right – County Councillor Maureen Powell, Chairman of Monmouthshire County Council, Castle Inn landlady Sharon McAtee, MCC Service Manager Debbie Price and Head of Children's Services Vanessa Glenn.