Huge increase in workload

I refer to Pete Alex's letter (South China Morning Post, July 9). Owing to the overwhelming interest in the Western Harbour Crossing Walk For Millions, we had to handle more than 60,000 sponsor forms and bank-in slips.

Shortly thereafter, we had to process a further 80,000 enrolment forms for the even more popular Lantau Link Charity Walk. These forms represented a huge increase in our workload and a longer processing time is therefore needed. We expect to finish the processing and issue all the receipts by the end of September. If Mr Alex needs more information on this matter, he can call our Electronic Data Processing Department at 2599 6131.

On the day of the Western Harbour Crossing Walk, there was a check-out area at the finishing point where participants could collect a sticker and certificate upon the completion of the walk. However, the stock ran out because attendance was much greater than anticipated. We therefore arranged for participants to collect the certificates on a subsequent date. Announcements were made in major Chinese and English newspapers.

We are grateful to Mr Alex for his donations and very much hope he will continue to support the Chest's effort in improving the lives of some 700,000 unfortunate and disadvantaged people in our community.

DARWIN CHEN Chief Executive The Community Chest