Many thanks to everyone who helped make the St Joseph's Catholic Church Fete in Lydney such a success on Saturday. A total of almost £2,100 was raised which exceeded last year's total by more than £300.

The Fete is a joint effort by all four Catholic churches in the Forest, and the money raised is donated to worthwhile causes in the Forest which uphold the guiding principles of the Christian church, to support those in most need.

Last year the money was used primarily to fund the start-up of a senior citizens monthly lunch club held at the Coleford church hall. This is now thriving with more than 30 regulars from across the Forest enjoying a convivial meal on the last Friday of each month.

This year we wish to help any appropriate charities, especially those without a regular funding stream, which strive to assist those in the community to live a full life despite physical or mental impairments. Anyone who wishes to make a case for some funding contribution is invited to email a short summary of their activities and the purpose for which the money would be used, to Rev Father Barnabas Page at bpage@forestrc. orangehome.co.uk for the Parish Pastoral Council to consider.

The continuing willingness of the Forest community to support worthwhile fund-raising events so well, despite the hard economic situation being faced by everyone, is an amazing expression of the inherent charity which has always been a tradition of this area and its people. Long may it thrive!

– Anthony Midgley, chair of the Combined Forest Catholic Parish Pastoral Council.