A CHARITY in Cirencester which gives children a break from looking after their disabled mum or dad, has touched the hearts of one local business.

In October the Standard published an article urging members of the public to support Gloucestershire Young Carers (GYC) an organisation which provides vital support to carers as young as eight.

The charity runs a group in Cirencester, allowing around 20 children each week to take a break from their caring duties and just have fun with their friends.

After reading the article, Cirencester solicitors Sewell Mullings Logie LLP have now chosen GYC as its charity of the year and staff are hoping to help the group in any way they can.

"A couple of people were aware of their work but then we saw the report and it really cemented the importance of the charity," said associate legal executive Kate Nairn, who is also charity representative at the company. "We made a shortlist of charities and the majority of the 40 people here voted for GYC."

Click to watch a video about the vital work carried out by Gloucestershire Young Carers

The law firm chooses a charity each year to support. In the past employees have held bake sales for The Churn Project and bought tins of cat food for the hedgehogs at Oak and Furrows wildlife rescue centre.

"We don't do it just for the money," added Kate. "We like to make it about time and commitment. We chose GYC because of the amazing work they do and we are keen to raise their profile locally.

"When you read about the young carers, you realise they are just children. We are delighted to be helping and learning more about them."

Marketing and fundraising manager at GYC Jane Dyer said she is very excited to work with the law firm, based in Dollar Street.

"It's great to have a partnership in town with staff visiting the group and getting to know us," she said. "We have a big event in February at Gloucester Cathedral where the young carers can do a whole week of workshops. We have a number of costs or people could volunteer."

Jane also said that thanks to the article the Standard previously published, GYC has had three new volunteers come forward.

"That in itself has saved us money," she added. "You have given us our Christmas present."

If you think you can help GYC contact jane@glosyoungcarers.org.uk