Mendip District Council has chosen Coleford-based Time is Precious to be its Charity of the Year for the second year in a row.

In 2020, staff raised £820, plus £121 in gift aid, for the cause. Since the March lockdown last year, many council staff have been working from home, posing significant fundraising challenges when compared to previous years.

A vote was taken to either continue supporting the current charity or nominate a new one for 2021.

However, Time Is Precious remained firm favourite and will be the focus of fundraising at the council for a further 12 months.

Previous beneficiaries of the Mendip staff fundraiser have been £4,130 for CLIC Sargent in 2019, and £1,700 for YMCA Mendip in 2018.

Mendip District Council's chief executive, Stuart Brown, said: "Despite Covid-19 restrictions, and with many working from home, staff were still able to band together and fundraise more than £800 last year, which is frankly incredible.

"However, their resounding vote to back Time is Precious again for 2021, shows they feel there's a lot more they can, and want, to do for this special, local charity.

"We know that many such organisations are struggling due to the prolonged pandemic. The work they do is vital and valued by communities, and they need our help.

"I am so proud to see Mendip staff step-up to assist with such dedication and enthusiasm. Proud, but not surprised."

Time is Precious was set up by Neil and Nicky Halford in memory of their son Ben who died from cancer in 2010.

The charity aims to create a more comfortable and relaxed atmosphere for ill and disabled children and their families in hospital or at home.

Nicky and Neil said: "We are absolutely thrilled to be the chosen charity for the second year in a row.

"Thank you ever so much for raising an amazing amount last year, this will be going towards a specialised MRI DVD player in Bristol Children's Hospital. It will take their mind off the overwhelming procedure by watching their favourite film.

"This year we intend to expand our Ben's Gift appeal, where we purchase equipment for disabled children in their home. Any funds raised by Mendip staff this year will be going towards that appeal."

Would you like to learn more about Mendip's Charity of the Year? You can visit https://timeisprecious.org/ for full details and information.