It is that time of year when small charities such as ours must thank those who have supported us during the previous year.

We rely heavily on such support and so we would like to thank the following through the medium of your newspapers: for contributing to our Christmas raffle: Wilkinson Group; Nestlé UK Ltd; Fenwicks, Brent Cross; United Biscuits; Hasbro; Fuller, Smith and Turner; and Tesco Uxbridge. In addition many members and helpers in our club contributed prizes themselves.

For continuing support throughout the year we must also offer heartfelt thanks to the RAFA Battle of Britain Club, Hillingdon Road, Uxbridge.

The committee of the club - Debi, Danny, Bob and Frances - are our strongest supporters, and they give this support unequivocally during a period of uncertainty for their future.

Harlington Bowling Club also gives a great deal of support, both in terms of arranging matches and allowing the use of their green during the out-side season. This support is given every year without fail.

Finally, all the helpers who give up their time to come along under all circumstances to give many registered visually impaired people in the London Borough of Hillingdon and beyond a freedom they otherwise would not have, must be thanked for their tireless efforts. We could not survive without them.

FRANK LEWIS,

Hillingdon Blind Bowlers, by email.