A.F. Blakemore & Son Ltd have selected Marie Curie, the UK’s leading end of life charity, as their official charity partner for the first time.

The partnership is across the Wales-based company and aims to raise £250,000 for the charity, which has a hospice in Penarth.

Staff, including in SPAR stores, will organise fundraising events, including the Blooming Great Tea Party, 'Scare to Show you Care', and the SPARkle Christmas campaign.

A.F. Blakemore’s responsible business director, Caoire Blakemore, said: "I am delighted that our colleagues chose to raise funds for Marie Curie, their vision of ensuring everyone gets the best possible care and support at the end of life is a cause we look forward to championing.

"This is the first time ever that the whole business has been committed to raising money for Marie Curie."

Marie Curie healthcare assistant Sarah Meek said: "The partnership will help fund Marie Curie services in Wales and across the UK, including our hospice care at home services, which are so important for people at the end of life living in their own homes."

Marie Curie provides care and support to people at the end of life and their loved ones, in homes or at its hospices.