A DECORATING firm has recognised the "invaluable" work of a local food bank, by handing over a £500 donation.

Staff from Bell Group, a contractor of Pembrokeshire County Council, visited Pembrokeshire Action To Combat Hardship's (PATCH) Milford Haven headquarters this week.

Said Mike Rogers, branch manager: "Bell Group recognises that many families suffer severe financial strain at this time of year and some of these families cannot cope without help.

"Government departments cannot always react quickly enough to help families that are in financial crisis and PATCH is able to offer some immediate support."

Mr Rogers, who recently joined the firm, said the idea for the donation came from retiring regional director Peter Goodman.

Bell Decorating Group is a family-run firm with 22 branches throughout the UK.

Annually the company offers substantial funding to many local charitable organisations.