A NEWTON Abbot-based road planning company has donated a share of £12,000 to local charities chosen by its staff.

Jet Plant UK’s local team member, from planer operators to drivers and and sales team were asked to pick 10 charities.

Charities close to Jet’s Newton Abbot base saw a share of the much-needed cash.

They include Rowcroft Hospice, a Torquay-based charity which provides comfort, support and care to thousands of patients and their loved ones every year across South Devon.

Animals in Distress has also been given a well deserved donation to continue re-homing dogs, cats, rabbits and guinea pigs in the local area.

Ian Mitchell, Commercial Director at Jet Plant Hire, said: ‘Giving our colleagues the opportunity to choose the charities we’re supporting as a business every year is very important to us.

‘We’re proud to deliver a sustainable, industry leading service across the UK, so it’s only right that we give back to vital organisations nationwide.

‘Our success is down to our hard working team and we’re always keen that they have a voice in the decisions we make.

‘That’s the reason we let them decide on where this £12,000 goes. It also means that all the good causes this money goes to have a personal connection to them.’

Rowcroft’s Corporate Fundraiser Lisa Whittaker, said: ‘We’re hugely grateful to Jet Plant Hire and its teams for choosing to support Rowcroft Hospice.

‘Donations like this help us continue providing specialist end-of-life care and vital support to patients and families across South Devon at a time when they need it most. It’s a wonderful example of a business giving back to the communities it works alongside and making a real and lasting difference.’

Other charities to benefit from donations included men’s mental health charity - Andy’s Man Club, Macmillan Cancer Support and Rainbows Hospice for children and young people.