I AM writing to let your readers know about the marvellous help which the RAF Benevolent Fund (RAFBF) can provide for RAF personnel, whether they are serving or retired, and to their partners and dependants too.

My husband served in the RAF for four years as part of his National Service. After he passed away, I found that I was experiencing increasing pain in my back, and was diagnosed with arthritis of the spine. Finding myself badly in need of a suitable reclining chair, my carer suggested that I contact the RAF Benevolent Fund for financial assistance.

As my husband had been in the RAF for National Service only, and as I never served, I had not considered the RAFBF as an option and did not think I would be eligible for help. However, after examining my case, the RAFBF paid for a brand new reclining chair which has transformed my life.

It is difficult to describe what a difference it makes being able to sit comfortably and relax in my own home again.

I’m immensely grateful for the superb help I received and I wanted to let other members of the RAF family know about the excellent range of services and support which the RAF Benevolent Fund provides.

So if any of your readers are serving or retired RAF (including National Service) and are in need of help, I urge them to contact the charity's helpline 0800 077 6858 or visit the website at rafbf.org.

Lillian Wallbridge, Portsmouth.