A “STAGGERING” response from the public means nearly £160,000 will go towards helping the families of Chepstow-based soldiers injured or killed in action.

The 1 Rifles Swift and Bold Appeal, set up in 2011 as Beachley Barracks soldiers prepared to embark on the battalion’s second tour of Afghanistan, has officially closed, with a final total of £159,500.

The campaign was officially wound down over the last few months, with money from fundraisers and collection boxes handed in.

News of the final total comes six months after hundreds lined the streets of Chepstow to welcome the soldiers home.

Tragically, though, five riflemen did not make it, and the appeal touched the hearts of local people who wanted to do their bit to support their families, and those who suffered life-changing injuries in Helmand Province.

While their husbands were proudly serving their country, Army wives Melanie Harvey and Bernadette Killick took part in a skydive to raise £1,500, while the first ever Rifles Raceday at Chepstow Racecourse collected £15,000.

Swift and Bold wristbands were also sold at numerous outlets in Monmouthshire and the surrounding area.

Pop stars Will Young and Cheryl Cole were two famous faces who wore theirs with pride.

1 Rifles commanding officer, Lieutenant James de Labilliere, said the response to the Swift and Bold Appeal lifted the spirits of his men.

He said: “The level of support that the appeal received was humbling.

“Knowing the amount of hard work that was put in by all of our friends, families and supporters while we were away was extremely heartening, and the funds raised had an immediate impact in helping our affected families.

“That the appeal managed to raise such a staggering amount is indicative of the level of public support for our riflemen and the work that they do; and I would like to take this opportunity, on behalf of each and every one of us, to thank everyone who has made this possible.”

The campaign was coordinated by Charlotte Branston, wife of Captain Sam Branston.