WORCESTER-based central heating boiler manufacturer, Worcester Bosch, has named its two chosen charities for the fundraising year.

Associates were given the chance to nominate a charity and more than 30 names were put forward for consideration.

Every one of the designated charities was then included on a voting form, which led to the selection of the final two names - Cancer Research UK and The Grace Kelly Ladybird Trust.

Both charities were represented during the first of the company’s planned fundraising coffee mornings, which got the ball rolling earlier this month.

Among other fundraising activities planned are a 100 kilometre walk, a wolf run, bake sales and dress down days.

Dr Jennifer Kelly, Grace’s mum and founder of the Grace Kelly Ladybird Trust said: “I am delighted that Grace Kelly Ladybird Trust was selected as one of Worcester’s charities.

"The trust was set up in memory of my daughter, Grace, who passed away in 2014 at the age of four from a rare form of cancer.

"The main aim is to raise awareness of the signs and symptoms of childhood cancer and how it may present, as early diagnosis saves lives.

"We are also working hard to fund research into solid childhood tumours, which are the most under researched, to help give children the chance that they greatly deserve."

Dr Kelly added the latest scheme was awareness cards, showing signs and symptoms.

Victoria Roberts, local fundraising manager for Cancer Research UK, said: “Every two minutes, someone in the UK is diagnosed with cancer.

"With the help of employees at Worcester, we’re working to fund research which will help more men, women and children survive.

“It’s fantastic that Worcester has pledged to raise money for us in the coming year and we wish them the best of luck with their fundraising. The funds will go towards the charity’s research to beat over 200 types of cancer, helping to bring forward the day when all cancers are cured."

Sue Pennington, consumer brand manager and charity team member at Worcester, Bosch Group, added: “Worcester has a long history working with Cancer Research UK having raised money for the charity during the company’s 40th year and, with many of our employees already involved with Race for Life and Relay for Life year on year, it wasn’t a surprise that this was such a popular choice. Equally, Grace’s story is one that has touched so many people across the region and within the company, so it easily proved a stand-out option.

“Great strides have already been made into diagnosing and treating this disease across all ages, but there is so much more than can be done. We are delighted to be able to offer what support we can to both of these causes, and hope it will go some way to helping saving more lives in the future.”