ON behalf of the Devon Air Ambulance Trust I would like to say a big thank you for the wonderful reception we received on Saturday night at your carnival.

Our float was made up of HQ staff and their families and we were all really impressed with the atmosphere and enthusiasm of those lining the streets!

I would also like to pass on my sincere thanks to the Tavistock Lions Club for choosing us as the main beneficiary of this year?s event.

The lorry was loaned to the charity by Dave Pethick and we must say a big thank you to him and his team for all their support ? they were wonderful!

The air ambulance costs £3,000 per day to operate but, through the wonderful support from organisations such as the Tavistock Lions Club and the public, we are able to provide a service for everyone and continue to do our best to help those who need us.

The helicopter very much belongs to the people of Devon and the welcome in Tavistock reflects the warmth we all feel towards the air ambulance crew, both pilot and paramedics, who work endlessly towards saving lives.

We would also like to highlight the work of our volunteers who give us their time and the support from everyone around the county that help make us such a great success.

Our best wishes to everyone in Tavistock.

Lyn Paver

General manager

Devon Air

Ambulance Trust

MAY I express a huge thankyou to sponsors, advertisers, helpers and audiences who have supported Tavistock Carnival 2003.

The parade this year achieved an all time record of £2,514 street collection. A magnificent response to the hard work and effort put in by a variety of organisations, schools, clubs, traders and individuals.

Thankyou all for making Tavistock Carnival such an ongoing success.

Graeme Ugle

President

Tavistock Lions Club

I WOULD like, through your column, to thank the Lions Club for the splendid week of entertainment and activity they have yet again provided for Tavistock.

The carnival is without doubt a landmark in the town?s calender and I know that it is all entirely due to the inspiration, time and hard work of their members.

It is also particularly appreciated how much local charities benefit from the valuable funds raised.

Long may the Lions flourish!

Norma Woodcock

Tavistock Town Mayor