A GROUP of Chepstow pub regulars has raised more than £4,000 for local charities, most of which will benefit troops and their families based at Beachley barracks.

The Bell Hanger fund-raisers organised several events to reach the impressive target, the latest being a family fun day and evening auction and raffle held at the pub.

"We had a terrific day and the result is really good. We specially want to thank all the town traders – every business contributed gifts for the raffle and we are really grateful," said a spokesman for the organisers.

"We wanted to say thanks to locally-based troops in particular so rather than contribute to a national fund we are giving the proceeds directly to Beachley Barracks, where 1 Rifles have returned from a particularly tough tour in Afghan­istan, losing eight guys.

"We understand some of the money will go into creating a memorial garden at the barracks which will be a fitting tribute."

The Little Scamps Nursery will also benefit from the Bell Hanger fund which was supported by the Wetherspoons pub chain.

"Wetherspoons was a great help and Stephanie King and John Davies let us use the premises free besides working very hard to make sure everything went well," said the spokesman.