A DORSET charity that provides vital services to children and families has received £3,900 to help continue the important work the organisation does in the community.

Ashley's Birthday Bank, which was set up at the end of 2014 and is based in Christchurch, offers birthday and Christmas presents to underprivileged children to make sure they are able to celebrate the special occasions.

The charity also provides a crisis service for families going through a difficult financial time or those who have escaped domestic violence, neglect or human trafficking.

Trustee Danielle Turner visited the Daily Echo offices on Richmond Hill to collect the cheque for the charity from editor Andy Martin, who handed over the financial boost on behalf of the Gannett Foundation.

Danielle said the money will go towards birthday presents for children, putting together weekly food shops and purchasing household items such as fridge freezers, microwaves and washing machines.

"We have taken toys into children who have nothing and are sleeping on a mattress," she said.

"You give them something like a book and they are saying 'thank you' with tears in their eyes and the parents are so grateful.

"More and more people are getting in contact with us. We have around seven referrals a day. It is quite eye-opening just how much is on our doorstep and we don't know about it."

Over the last 10 years alone, Newsquest, which publishes the Daily Echo, has given more than £3 million to help charitable community causes all over the country.

The Gannett Foundation UK, which makes the grants, retains a modest reserve to cater for urgent applications until the next round of awards. Applications can be made through any local Newsquest Media Group editor.