I write in response to Michael Rhymes's letter, Did we pay for birthday bash? (Oxford Mail, July 15).

I work in the corporate information department at Thames Valley Police and we were asked to organise the celebration of the force's 40th anniversary on behalf of the Chief Constable - at no cost to the taxpayer.

This was the first time the force had held such an event.

The kind generosity of Eynsham Hall, which provided the ex-police training school free of charge, and sponsorship from several other commercial bodies which covered the cost of afternoon tea, allowed us to put on an event which was centrally located and thus accessible to current and retired officers and staff and their families from across the country.

We have had many letters and emails telling us how much people enjoyed and appreciated the afternoon, during which the Chief Constable, Sara Thornton, was able to publicly recognise the tremendous acts of service and courage shown by staff from across the force.

Drayton Park Golf Club is used for the ceremonies at which long service medals, commendation and other awards are presented.

The venue is provided free of charge and the modest fee for refreshments is covered by the police budget.

The Chief Constable and her team manage the Thames Valley Police budget very carefully and strongly refute any suggestion of frittering away public money.

RACHEL McQUILLIAM Community Relations Manager Thames Valley Police