Brunsdon Financial Services has revealed that money earmarked for this year's staff Christmas party has instead been donated to the Pied Piper Appeal to buy toys for disabled and sick children.

The Gloucester-based business, which employs around 40 members of staff, traditionally organises a staff party to celebrate the festive season.

But with that not being possible this year due to Covid-19 restrictions, the company directors contacted the Pied Piper Appeal to see how the funds could be utilised to support the charity's vital work with sick and disabled children.

It was decided that the money would be used to fund a Christmas 'wish list' for sick and disabled children, compiled by carers from the Children's Centre at Gloucestershire Royal Hospital.

On December 13, a team from Brunsdon Financial and representatives from the Pied Piper charity met at Smyths Toys in Gloucester to fulfil this wish list. From large toys to small, a whole range of games and toys was chosen guided by the Children's Centre NHS play specialists.

Marcus Gomery, managing director at Brunsdon Financial, said: "As long-term supporters of the Pied Piper Charity, and mindful of the significant issues that all charities have faced this year, we wanted to do something to help. It's a real shame that we can't have our usual staff Christmas party, but it has meant that we can put the allocated budget to good use by funding the wish list. In this way, we can ensure that all children at the hospital will this year receive some very nice presents.

"Closer to home, my son Kaden was recently in hospital and during his tests was helpfully distracted with some Lego. This showed me how important such things are to the children, the families and nurses and how Brunsdon could help.

"The directors of the company are immensely proud of the way that everyone in Brunsdon Financial has coped and responded to the challenges we have experienced this year. We hope to be able to get together for a staff event in 2021, but in the meantime it's great to be able to support a fantastic local cause."

Brunsdon's previous donations to the Pied Piper Appeal have included more than £17,000 to help refurbish the children's assisted washroom at the hospital and additional donations towards the refurbishment of the children's oncology playroom area.