DOZENS of Island causes have benefitted from more than £15,000 in donations thanks to the efforts of the Southern Co-operative's Funeralcare staff.

With six branches across the Island, the funeral co-ordinators embraced the 'Love Your Neighbourhood' community programme by donating goods, cash and almost 400 hours of their spare time.

Sector operations manager, Elaine Dove said: "Last year was such a bumper year for our funeral co-ordinators and was topped off by winning the community business award at the IW Chamber Business Awards."

The Miss Isle School of Sip and Puff Sailing, Challenge and Adventure, and the Wessex Cancer Trust are just a few causes to receive donations following fundraisers including a dog show in Shanklin, abseil down the Spinnaker Tower and a charity ball that raised more than £1,500.

"When we sat down and looked back at the whole year, we were overwhelmed by the time and effort they have put in," said Jessica Hughes, Southern Co-op community investment manager.

"This is in addition to donations made by people in memory of their loved ones."

You can find out more about the Southern Co-op and it's 'Love Your Neighbourhood' programme at www.southernco-op.co.uk/makingadifference

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