I WOULD like to raise awareness of a scheme currently being run in York that offers everyone aged 55 or over the opportunity to have their wills written free of charge by a local solicitor, and to help one or more charities at the same time.

The Free Wills Fortnight, which runs between May 18 and 31, is being organised by ten UK charities, and is supported by a number of firms of solicitors in the city.

I am supporting Free Wills Fortnight because these ten respected charities are offering something in return for our consideration for their vital work.

Age Concern, Barnardos, the Blue Cross, Breakthrough Breast Cancer, CAFOD, Great Ormond Street Hospital, Mental Health Foundation, RNID, RNLI and the Stroke Association offer care and support to thousands of people every day.

This is the perfect opportunity to have one's will written by a solicitor, and to leave a gift to benefit the work of one or more of these charities.

I know that there are many people aged 55 or over who do not have an up-to-date will, and I urge them to contact a participating solicitor before the closing date tomorrow to make an appointment.

Legacies are a fantastic gift to charities. Most UK charities depend on legacies for up to half their income - by taking part in this scheme you could help your favourite cause.

To take part in Free Wills Fortnight please book an appointment by ringing one of the participating law firms which can be found on www.freewillsfortnight.org.uk, or by phoning 0845 020 4309.

John Craven, on behalf of the Free Wills Fortnight Charities.