IT is just two weeks since we launched our campaign to raise cash for the replacement of the vital life-saving craft SARA 3 and the response so far has been fantastic.

Pembroke Primary School in Chepstow is organising a fundraising sale on behalf of the campaign this Friday and the Free Press raised nearly £200 at the Monmouthshire Country Fair towards the £17,500 target.

Our man Gwyn Roberts, the Free Press promotions manager, helped net £130 through collections and a further £55 was raised through special promotions at the Free Press stall.

And since we launched our appeal to replace SARA 3, Severn Area Rescue Association’s Beachley station has received numerous generous donations from members of the public, including one cheque for £600. Thank you all or your help.

It is essential readers, schools, associations and local businesses keep jumping on board our campaign. SARA is completely dependant on contributions to keep it running.

Volunteers man SARA, providing a life-saving service. Last year alone the team attended 99 call-outs from Cardiff to Gloucester, ranging from vessels suffering engine failure to overturned craft and those caught out by the tide, .

The existing SARA 3 rescue boat has come to the end of its lifespan and urgently needs replacing You can send your donations, made payable by cheque of postal order to Mervyn Flemming, SARA lifeboat and rescue station, Beachley, NP16 7HH.

Cheques and postal orders should be made payable to Severn Area Rescue Association and write ‘SARA 3’ on the back. Also include your full name and address so SARA can claim Gift Aid.

You can also donate by visiting sara-rescue.org.uk and follow the donation link.

Remember - if you’re holding a fundraising event, we want to hear from you so we can cover it.