STAFF at Earby's Holiday Cottages Group raised almost £3,000 for charities close to the hearts of employees.

One of the worthy causes, the North West Air Ambulance, was selected by a relative of schoolgirl Rachel Stewart, who was killed after falling from a tree near Fisher More High School, in Colne, two years ago.

The 12-year-old died from her injuries after being airlifted to Royal Preston Hospital but her cousin, Sam Burrows, praised the helicopter crew's efforts in trying to save her.

Nominating the NWAA, which received £500, he wrote: "Without their speedy and professional service the terrible ordeal for Rachel's family would have been prolonged even further.

"We remain forever grateful to the air ambulance service for their help on this tragic evening."

A cheque for £1,600 went to Sue Ryder Care, at Manorlands hospice, after the death of employee Anthony Firth.

His widow, Annie, wrote: "Manorlands provided wonderful support for Anthony throughout his illness, they couldn't have done more to help us. Manorlands has a lovely calm atmosphere where the family were encouraged to visit whenever they wanted and were very included in all of his care.

"I think that we are very lucky to have such a wonderful place so close to us and that people in the local community should support it."

Meanwhile, volunteer paramedic service First Response also received a donation of £500.

Representatives of the group, who are often the first on the scene of a medical emergency, visited Holiday Cottages to demonstrate their life-saving equipment.

Holiday Cottages Group managing director Geoff Cowley presented the charities with their cheques this week.

Staff raised the money through several fundraising initiatives, including raffles and dress-down days.