THEY say that in these times of global recession and tightening of belts it's becoming harder and more challenging to raise funds than ever before, but when you see the astronomical totals achieved by Comic Relief and Children In Need you start to wonder who 'they' are! I guess they're the same ones who came up with the phrase 'we're all 'charitied' out.

THEY say that in these times of global recession and tightening of belts it's becoming harder and more challenging to raise funds than ever before, but when you see the astronomical totals achieved by Comic Relief and Children In Need you start to wonder who 'they' are! I guess they're the same ones who came up with the phrase 'we're all 'charitied' out.'

I don't agree that people are tired of giving. History proves that the harder the times the more the British people dig deeper into their pockets. And that theory was well and truly confirmed on Sunday, at the Corton Hut, when over �2,500 was raised at the Parkinson Event 2, a musical evening organised to raise money for the Parkinson's Disease Society. This year is the 40th anniversary of its existence and Sunday was the final day of Parkinson's Awareness Week.

The proceedings began when Mayor Frank Mortimer presented me with a cheque for �809.32. This was money raised at a mayoral ball and my thanks go to him and all those who attended and gave so generously. You see what I mean?

Leaving the money aside for one moment, the other gifts that were donated so freely were time, talent and most of all, love. There are no words to express my gratitude except thank you, to each and every one of you who supported or took part. Thank you.

GARY WOODS

London Road South

Lowestoft