I am writing on behalf of the NSPCC, to thank your readers and the people of Omagh for their support over the past year. Whether they have helped us by campaigning on our behalf, given donations, organised or attended events or taken any other action to help stop cruelty to children, their help has been very much appreciated.

There are around 114 children on the child protection register in the local trust area because they are at risk of abuse. However, these are just the children we know about and there are likely to be many more suffering in silence.

In Omagh, the NSPCC operates several services including the Young Witness Service for children and young people who have to give evidence in court and the Independent Schools Counselling Service.

We need almost & pound;4 million every year to maintain and develop our 20 services right across Northern Ireland.

The support of people in Omagh has meant that the Independent Schools Counselling service has been able to provide a lifeline for local children who are unhappy, frightened, distressed or experiencing difficulties both inside and outside school.

Additionally, trained counsellors were able to eliminate worries that can spiral out of control for children and lead to more difficult circumstances.

Also, the Young Witness service was able to help make the process of going to court a much more understandable and considerably less traumatic experience for young witnesses at court.

We are extremely grateful for all the help given but we need the people of Co. Tyrone to continue their support.

We urgently need more fundraising volunteers, so if you are able to organise an event, no matter how big or small or are interested in hearing more about us, please call 028 9035 1135.

Help us to end cruelty to children - FULL STOP! Catherine Nuttall

Head of Community Appeals

NSPCC