KIND-HEARTED call centre staff have made festive pledges to raise money for a hospice.

With Christmas only days away, staff at 2Touch, in Sunderland, have pledged to donate all charity funds raised over the next year to St Benedict's Hospice.

Employees at the 800-strong organisation will hold a series of fundraising events to raise money for a planned refurbishment of the hospice.

Stuart Gray, managing director at 2Touch, said: "Over the last 12 months, staff at 2Touch raised over £10,000 for Guide Dogs for the Blind and it was such a success that we decided to adopt another charity for 2004.

"St Benedict's has provided palliative care to the people of Sunderland and surrounding districts since 1984, and it is a charity which is close to the hearts of many.

"The next 12 months will be packed with exciting events and activities to ensure that we raise as much money as possible for what is undoubtedly a good cause."

Launching the fundraising in style, 2Touch has taken delivery of hospice soft toys, calendars and Christmas cards from St Benedict's to sell.

Anne Oliver, hospice fundraising co-ordinator, said: "I am delighted that 2Touch has adopted St Benedict's Hospice as their charity of the year.

"Their support is very much appreciated and I wish them every success."