Despite my fear of heights, I shall be abseiling 418 feet down the former Express Lift tower in Northampton to raise funds for Towcester Town Mayor's charities.

This year, Towcester Town Mayor Councillor Peter Conquest will be supporting Blind Veterans (BV) UK, a national charity, that cares for ex-servicemen and their families of all the armed services, without distinction. The loss of sight at any time at any age is devastating and cannot be fully understood by those of us who enjoy the full use of our eyes. They are precious and vulnerable. Training and rehabilitation is their chief work of BV UK. At centres in Brighton, Sheffield and Llandudno where training and retraining takes place there is also accommodation for these courses and for frail elderly ex-service men, many of whom spend their final years in the care of BV UK. Our servicemen do a sterling job in protecting this country. We owe it to them to care for them when they need it.

Local volunteer groups are also of interest to the Town Mayor. Among those are Tove Wetland Park, a beauty spot in this small market town and something of a home for small wild life. Bounded by busy trunk roads and a residential estate it is also used by joggers, walkers and dog owners for its tranquillity and green space. It is cared for by a dedicated group of volunteers; who, in addition to its regular and seasonal care have in recent years installed dipping platforms and interpretation boards. Other projects are envisaged for which funds are sought.

Note: Blind Veterans UK was formerly known as St Dunstan's. Founded in 1915 to care for soldiers and sailors blinded WWI. Find out more here: https://www.blindveterans.org.uk