I'VE received a kind letter from Ann Dalton, chairman of the local fund-raising group for Age Concern.

Thanking me for officially opening their first-ever family-fun gala, in the Mansion House grounds at Victoria Park, St Helens, she reports that the afternoon event raised a total of more than £1,000.

This comprised £513 in takings together with the 'icing on the cake' of a £500 donation from the Pilkington glass company. "Your support and presence was greatly appreciated," Ann generously adds.

"The staff at Age Concern were absolutely delighted with our efforts, and with our choice of guests."

These included the mayor, Councillor Pat Jackson, and her hubby, Jimmy, who took a lively interest in the procedings and had a flutter or two at the sideshow stalls.

The fund-raisers themselves deserve by far the biggest pat on the back in being what is believed to be the first fund-raising volunteer group to have successfully tackled such an event within Age Concern.

In addition to band music, stalls, sideshows and novelty attractions, much appreciated conducted tours of the Mansion House were laid on for the visitors.

THIS is part of an ongoing open-door policy, encouraging the general public to help support those veterans among their own direct community.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.