I AM writing on behalf of ARCOS, the charity that provides therapy and special equipment for children and adults with communication problems, to thank everyone for their generosity in supporting us over the last 12 months.

ARCOS was privileged to be adopted, along with the League of Friends of Malvern Hospital, as the designated charity of Malvern Town Council's chairman. The cheque for £1,122.75, presented this week, will increase the help that ARCOS is able to provide free of charge, to local people. In addition to the cheque we have received increased donations from individuals in the community who have become aware of ARCOS due to the publicity generated by the chairman and town council and significant sums were contributed during the concert in Priory Park and the Christmas Fayre.

Most of us are lucky enough to be able to take our speech and language for granted and enjoy a meal without coughing or choking caused by swallowing problems. However, having a chat, making a telephone call and eating a meal easily, is difficult or impossible for ARCOS clients. Increased funding provides ARCOS with the specialised resources to help and we hope that the new friends made this year will want to continue supporting our work.

A big thank you to chairman Mike Selby and to the people of Malvern.

MRS RAE SMITH, chairman ARCOS Trustees, Church Street, Malvern.