ON October 16 I was in the company of the Hyndburn Arthritis Care Group at the Come and Welcome in Clayton and Welcome Club in Clayton-le-Moors.

The entertainment and the speeches were well put over but, best of all was the courage and the will-power of the people there to overcome their disabilities.

They don't look for sympathy, just that people understand.

I didn't see a long face all night, everyone was having a good time.

My 200-length sponsored swim at the Great Harwood baths, which raised £100, seemed only the tip of an iceberg.

I wish it had been £1,000.

One day I may just manage that.

So I appeal to everyone, please help in any way you can.

ADA GIBSON, Grange Street, Clayton-le-Moors.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.