CLAIRE House is one of two Merseyside hospices benefiting yet again from a share of cash raised by employees and sub-contractors at Cammell Laird.

Every Christmas the Birkenhead firm raises much-needed funds for the Clatterbridge-based centre and Zoe's Place baby hospice in Liverpool.

This time, the company donated almost £7,500 which was then made up to £15,000 by the company and split between the two charities.

Tens of thousands pounds have been raised in recent years through the annual Christmas collections.

Joanne Bird from Cammell Laird said: "Everyone was extremely generous again and the two charities really appreciate this support.

"The hospices provide a great service across the region, which is recognised by our donations. One of the hospices, Zoe's Place, is marking its 20th anniversary this year, which is another great achievement.

“The fundraising at Cammell Laird began eight years ago with a group of shipwrights donating lottery winnings.

"It has expanded to include the whole workforce and subcontractors raising funds, which the company generously matches. The cash will go some way to funding the charities’ vital work."

At a recent ceremony, Carol Kirkham, fundraising manager at Zoe’s Place, and Helen Carlson, from Claire House, were each presented with cheques for £7,500 by Cammell Laird employees and subcontractors’ representatives.

Mrs Kirkham said: “We are really grateful to everyone at Cammell Laird for their ongoing generosity The money may be used for a variety of things – for example, paying for cots, specialist equipment, the hydrotherapy pool or soft play toys.

“Zoe’s Place became a Cammell Laird charity of the year in 2011 and has since received almost £30,000 in donations, which is phenomenal. This fantastic support means we can carry on providing our vital services to families.”

Helen Carlson, corporate development manager at Claire House, added: "Claire House is a local charity with a big heart. Everyone is so proud of the team at Cammell Laird for once again going the extra mile and raising so much money for our children.

"The generosity will ensure Claire House can continue to put smiles on faces and to create treasured memories that will last a life time. We are proud to call Cammell Laird a supporter and a friend. Thank you."