BANK staff from Bolton and the surrounding areas have found another way to support local and national charities, by donating directly from their pay packet.

Charities have received more than £13,295 from the local staff in the last financial year.

Natwest in Bolton is also helping out by "double matching" any contribution they make through the bank's "give as you earn" scheme. Staff can give to any organisation of their choice as long as it is a charity

or an organisation such as a school, hospital or youth organisation, which is eligible to recieve tax efficient donations.

Regional Managing Director for Natwest Pete Ferns said: "Payroll giving is a highly effective way to donate to charity, money is taken straight from the employer, and the taxman adds an extra 10 per cent to each donation. That's an average of around £200 per person per month, so it really is a great way to donate money".