ONCE again it is that time of year where it is important for small charities like our own to publicly give thanks to people and organisations who support us.

In these times of recession it is understandable if donors become fewer, but we are pleased to say this has not affected us as badly as it might have.

Our presentation and Christmas party was on Friday, and we were still able to supply nearly 50 quality prizes for the raffle through the generosity of many. Thanks are due to United Bisuits, Fuller's, Tesco Yeading, Hasbro and various club members for supplying these prizes.

Particular mention should be given to Brian Hilton for supplying many expensive items out of his own pocket, and to Edna Robinson for making the long trek from her home in Essex to set up the hall for the party.

Special thanks are also due to Debi and Danny Forbes and the management committee of the Battle of Britain Club for their constant support, and also to John at the Trophy and Engraving Centre in Hayes Town.

Many people helped on the night and the list is too numerous to mention but a big thank-you to you all.

Support has been constant from Harlington Bowling Club and we were pleased to welcome several of their members to the party.

This party is the culmination of the year for members of a club which caters for visually-impaired people and is one of the few dedicated sports clubs for people with sight problems.

Members come from within or adjacent to the London Borough of Hillingdon and all agree our club has been a lifeline.

Funding applications are constant to keep the club going and we are grateful to the following for various grants and financial donations made to us during 2009: Hillingdon Sports Council; Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes; A P Taylor Trust; Jan and Pat Szymanski; and Verley Charles. Other anonymous donations also came to us.

Again, our very grateful thanks. A happy Christmas and a healthy, prosperous 2010 to all our supporters.

FRANK LEWIS press officer and treasurer

Hillingdon Blind Bowlers

Via email