ON behalf of ChildLine, the UK's free 24-hour helpline for children and young people, I would like to thank West Mercia Constabulary and the Youth Parliament for the tremendous work they put in organising the "Party in the Park" events at Bewdley and Stourport.

They provided fantastic entertainment, as well as helping to raise much-needed funds for a children's charity.

Special thanks must go to PC Nigel Barter and PC Jon Harris, Abbey Lewis and Chris Edwards, who all worked tirelessly to ensure that the events were a great success.

Blessed with fine weather, both parties attracted huge attendances of children and young people (and a few not so young, as well) all of whom had a thoroughly enjoyable time.

ChildLine was the preferred charity to benefit from the parties and a total of £326 was raised, meaning that well more than 100 more local children will be able to reach the comfort, advice and protection offered by a ChildLine counsellor.

It is through the kindness and public spirit shown by Nigel, Jon, Abbey and Chris and their teams of helpers, together with the generosity of the public who supported the events, that ChildLine is able to continue its service to children and it is on behalf of those children that I offer the most sincere thanks to all concerned.

ERIC KENT

Fund-raising manager

ChildLine Midlands and East Anglia

Hagley Road

Edgbaston