CUSTOMERS and staff at a luxury department store raised more than £29,000 for their chosen charity last year.

St Helena Hospice will receive the cash from Fenwick, on Colchester High Street, after money was raised from gift wrapping sessions, staff participating in the Midnight Walk, street collections in Colchester Carnival and the annual Christmas display unveiling.

In September, Fenwick announce the company would match-fund every pound raised and St Helena Hospice would remain the store charity for another two years.

Managing director Carl Milton said: "I am delighted we have been able to continue to support St Helena Hospice for a second year and once more raise a considerable amount.

"The charity is not only close to my heart but also to many employees within the store.

"It is fulfilling to be able to give something back to a charity which has touched so many lives.

"I would like to thank all staff and customers who have donated so generously in the past year and I look forward to continuing this level of support during the next couple of years."

The hospice's corporate fundraising partnerships manager Chloe Winter said: "We would like to thank Fenwick employees and customers for raising such a wonderful amount of money.

"This generous donation could pay for two days of our community team delivering personal care, symptom management, advice and support day and night for those who need it.

"We are delighted Fenwick has announced our charity partnership will continue for a further two years and we very much look forward to continue working with the store.”