Sir.-It was a great privilege for me to open the giant jumble sale at Oakridge Hall last Saturday

Mike Bowler and all his helpers worked so hard over the last few weeks to make the day possible.

It was good to see a number of our local councillors also giving up their time to do their bit.

On the day, a great deal of money was made for this cause.

Also, on a personal note, I would like to thank two very brave young ladies who helped on the day - Nicole and Danielle, whose own father is critically ill in hospital. They worked alongside their mum Alison and two-year-old Ben. Well done!

Everyone knows of Mike's achievements in fundraising. He and his wife, Michelle, have worked through adversity to help others in need and continue to do so.

So, to the people of Basingstoke, and all who came along and supported the event - give yourselves a big pat on the back.

-George Potten, Dryden Close, Basingstoke.

Sir.-What a crazy two days we spent - 12 hours preparing on Friday and nearly seven hours selling on Saturday.

The effort by young and old was tremendous.

More than 50 pick-ups were made, and a lovely afternoon was spent at Rucstall Primary School earlier in the week, where the children donated their toys, bought and sold books.

I have such high hopes for the future with the care and love that was shown by every age group. All the planning over the last few weeks was worth it.

We all had such fun and there was so much laughter.

Mike, Michelle, Micheala, Jean, Cheryl, Paul Frankum, Paul Harvey, Helen, Brian, Alison, Hayley, the guys from Onyx and Hamond, and the youths who helped - you were all great.

Harry, the youngest helper, won the name the reindeer competition (the name was Alfie).

It was a pity that someone put a damper on the effort by passing a Greek note off as a £10. I hope you realise you have stolen from people who have lost everything.

-Jane Frankum, Abbey Road, Basingstoke.