THE magnificent sum of £12,017. 65p has been raised for the Band of West Mercia Constabulary's Sri Lanka appeal over the last year.

Our initial target was £10,000 but the generosity of the community, including children, helped us to pass that figure.

We are funding young students between the ages of 10 and 15 in Payagala, Sri Lanka, through their education for the next two years at least.

The lives of these children had been affected by the tsunami in various ways.

The money raised is paid directly into a bank account in Payagala and then into the accounts of the children, administered through the local parish priest, Father Ivan Pietersz.

Members of Kidderminster Male Choir and the Kidderminster's Valentines choir gave their time, along with members of the band for two very well-supported concerts in Kidderminster Town Hall.

A sincere thanks to them and all who have contributed to our appeal - to Mike George, of BBC Hereford and Worcester, who willingly gave his time as compere, and to all the people who helped in other ways to make the project a success.

EDDIE PARRY

Co-ordinator/chairman

Band of the West Mercia Constabulary,

Hindlip Hall, Worcester