MAY I, through your pages, offer heartfelt thanks to the wonderful volunteers for Age Concern Forest of Dean, the volunteers in the shops, the befriending volunteers and the volunteer drivers, who all give their time and energy so selflessly throughout the year?

Their clients, who benefit from their generosity and the trustees of the charity, whose work is mainly concerned with administration and ensuring the maintenance of the services, are most grateful and appreciate their efforts.

Without them there would be no charity, one definition of which is to voluntarily offer help to those in need.

In pursuance of fund-raising to help to finance the meals and befriending services, we have successfully instigated a 200 Club and the first draw will be held this month.

If you would like to be part of this and enjoy the chance to win a cash prize each month for the outlay of £1 per month (£12 for the year payable in advance), please ring Anthea on 01594 827927 for information and an application form.

You will be supporting a local charity, run by local people for local people.

– Daphne Pearson (Dr), Redbrook.