JUST one year after the 1st Battalion 1 Rifles launched its Swift and Bold Wristband Appeal a staggering £150,000 has been raised.

The appeal was set up by the battalion in January 2011 as it prepared for its second six-and-a-half-month tour of Afghanistan.

The aim was to raise money to offer instant support to Riflemen who were injured during the tour of Afghanistan's Helmand Province and their loved ones and families and to help the families of those riflemen from the battalion who were killed whilst serving their country.

Now that the post operational tour leave period is over for 1 Rifles, the 'Swift and Bold' wristband appeal is formally being wound down. The campaign was coordinated by 28 year-old Charlotte Branston whose husband Captain Sam Branston arrived back home in November along with 550 fellow Riflemen.

She said: "We're sincerely grateful to every single person who has contributed, no matter how large or small.

"The freedom of Chepstow exemplified the support we have received with what seemed like the whole town lining the streets to welcome 1 Rifles home. On that day alone we collected nearly £1,500.

"The public have really connected with the Battalion and shown unwavering support and pride for our riflemen and their families throughout the tour with huge numbers of people wearing their 1 Rifles wristbands with pride."

Lieutenant Colonel James de Labilliere commanding officer of 1 Rifles added: "The phenomenal support that 1 Rifles has received from our local community and friends over the past twelve months has been humbling."

Tragically, five Riflemen from 1 Rifles were killed during the tour. Others suffered life-changing injuries.

The battalion continues to mourn the loss of the men it lost in action and the £150,000 raised is being put to good use. Right now, a dedicated team of soldiers from the 1 Rifles welfare staff are using this money to support those riflemen who were injured and their families, as well as the families of those Riflemen killed in action.

Donations can still be made at www.swiftandbold.org