THE Daily Echo is giving its backing for another year to the Yellow Buses charity drive which has raised nearly £13,000.

Carbon Stoppers was launched by the bus company and the Echo in 2008 and has since helped 52 good causes.

Each week, Yellow Buses holds a Thank You Thursday when every trip taken contributes to a Community Chest.

The bus company has pledged a minimum of £50 per week to the Carbon Stoppers fund, with Daily Echo readers invited to nominate worthy recipients.

Since Carbon Stoppers was launched in 2008, £12,910 has been presented to 52 organisations.

Yellow Buses has now confirmed it is to continue backing the initiative until at least the end of 2014 with the support of the Daily Echo.

Jenni Wilkinson, Yellow Buses’ head of marketing, said: “We know from the letters of appreciation we receive that Carbon Stoppers has made a real difference to many people.

“Our thanks go to our thousands of loyal customers, as well as Daily Echo readers, for helping us raise nearly £13,000.

“We’re very proud that Carbon Stoppers has done so much for so many in the space of six years.”

Daily Echo editor Toby Granville said the newspaper was pleased to support Carbon Stoppers for a further year.

He added: “The Daily Echo is proud and delighted to be involved in such a great initiative that raises thousands for good causes.

“I would also like to personally thank every passenger who makes a bus journey on Thursdays and helps make a real difference to those in need.”