AT this time of year our thoughts again turn to Remembrance. We think not only of those who fought so bravely in the last century but also of our recent losses and the continuing sacrifices made by members of our armed forces on a daily basis.

Sadly, the number of British servicemen and women killed and seriously injured on operations continues to rise. Many families are now struggling to come to terms with the sudden loss of a husband, father, brother, sister, son or daughter. Others are dealing with the impact of life-changing injuries or the physical and emotional scars a conflict can leave.

The Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association (Ssafa) Forces Help has been assisting members of the armed forces and their families for more than 120 years. The demand for our trusted brand of support now is as great as it has ever been.

Ssafa's army of volunteers across the country provide a range of practical, emotional and financial support. Working at a local level, often in conjunction with other service charities, they ensure we meet the changing needs of those who serve, those who used to serve and the families of both. Last year alone the Durham branch was able to assist 800 people.

Anyone who has given one day's service is entitled to a lifetime of support from Ssafa. That includes past and current members of all our armed forces, members of the Territorial Army, our Reserve Forces and those who have done National Service.

To learn more about how Ssafa can help you or someone you know, or to volunteer to help us, please contact the Durham branch on 0191-3839452 or visit www.ssafa.org.uk
Les Hutchison,
Durham Branch Secretary

Remembrance parade
SOUTH Hylton Armistice Parade takes place tomorrow, Sunday.
Would members of the public wishing to take part, meet at the Tansy Centre at 2pm or join the service at the war memorial at 2.45pm.
A Buckley,
Poppy Appeal Co-Ordinator

LOST MATE
I HAD a mate when I was young,
We went to war to right a wrong.
Through fields we fought, past shattered trees,
To rid the world of a fascist disease.
I came home to a hero's wave,
My mate lies in a soldier's grave.
In a distant field he met his demise,
I held his hand as he closed his eyes.
That day of sorrow I still recall,
Each night in bed I see him fall.
Though but once I lost my mate,
Guilt and torment was to be my fate.
But now I'm old and short of breath,
Soon to join him on the field of rest.
TB Fair

We're not all so lucky
IN reply to arthritis suffer (Echo, October 18), how lucky you are to be able to walk with your arthritis.
Do you ever stop to think that many arthritis sufferers simply are not this lucky and are extremely pleased to have the benefit of a scooter?
Not everybody has a car or can drive, or have a computer to do shopping on line and this is the only way they can get to the shops and, indeed, be able to get out at all. Anyway, people did not live as long in the past as they do today and had no scooters available.
I don't know where you have arthritis or how bad it is but I am an arthritis sufferer with neck, shoulders, hands, knees, hips and ankles affected. I try my best to walk but only with crutches and can't go out unless someone is with me. I have a scooter but try to manage without it when I can.
I say, look around, there is always someone worse off than you.
Arthritis Sufferer Who Can't Exercise

In memory of Peter
A HUGE thank you to everyone who helped make a fund-raising night at the Jolly Potter, South Hylton on October 24 another amazing success. Thanks to Anne and Els Young for all their hard work and organising, all staff for their help, Scott and David for the entertainment and most of all the generous customers of the Potters who helped raise a fantastic £1.275. The wonderful support we receive from you all is second to none and so much appreciated.
As you all know this part of Peter's Fund is to go to the Variety Club to sponsor a Sunshine Coach. The coach will be donated to a special school or community group in need of transport for the children. It will display Peter's name and logo and is something that I will be very proud of. When this coach takes to the road I hope you all know that it's with your help and support that this has been made possible.
Julie Reay,
Roker Avenue,
Sunderland
http://peter-lane.memory_of.com

It's not his fault
TO the lady who was at the 5pm performance of Flashdance on October 25, you should hang your head in shame after complaining to a member of the theatre staff about a handicap person who had "spoilt" your afternoon by shouting out during the performance.
This man had paid the same money as you to watch the show and it's not his fault he is unable to control his actions.
Did you hear him complain about the girls who were going to the bar and toilet all during the show?
No, life's too short to worry over things like that and these girls were sitting in front of me and not you.
Let's hope you never have to look after someone who is disabled or handicapped as you wouldnt take them anywhere in case they "spoilt" it for you,
A regular theatregoer