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-halfmonth 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 while 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 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.’ Lieutenant Colonel James de la Billière, commanding officer of 1 Rifles added: “The phenomenal support that 1 Rifles has received from our local community and friends over the past 12 months has been humbling.”

Tragically, five Riflemen from 1 Rifles were killed during the tour.

Others suffered lifechanging injuries.

The battalion continues to mourn the men it lost in action and the £150,000 raised is being put to good use.

A dedicated team of soldiers from the 1 Rifles welfare staff is currently using this money to support those Riflemen who were injured and their families, as well as helping the families of those who were killed in action.

● Donations to the appeal can still be made at www.

swiftandbold.org