Caterham Overseas Aid Trust "COAT" is a local charity with one aim; to raise funds to help people in third world countries out of poverty and often starvation.

COAT is run by enthusiastic volunteers and all funds raised are collected locally with the support of our Patron Lord Howe of Aberavon. Those of you may remember him as MP Geoffrey Howe.

This year we have had fantastic events and received great support. Our unaudited accounts show we have raised more than £19,000; more than in previous years since forming in 1982.

Our events this year included a record-breaking Surrey Harmony concert early in the year which raised £2,411, and being the selected charity at the Miller Centre for their play "Katharine Howard" in July.

What have we done with the money? We channel our funds through agencies who work on the ground so none is wasted in government bureaucracy, corruption, and general overheads. Our selected agencies include Self Help Africa (helping farmers improve crop yields and avoid starvation in Eastern Zambia), Practical Action (using science to maintain sustainable forests in Chinchipe, Peru), VSO volunteers around the world, Water Aid (a project in Mali towards helping provide fresh water and sanitation to 88,000 people), and many others. There's loads of other important work we support but we always need help from you by donation, helping at events or becoming a member of our committee.

Phil Saville, COAT Secretary, 01883 341063,