Thomas the Baker, which has a shop in Skipton high street, has donated £2,000 to the Martin House hospice for children and young people from the 5p charge for a carrier bag.

The bakery, which has 30 stores across Yorkshire and the North East, sets aside the money paid for any carrier bags within its stores and donates it to a range of local causes.

Martin House, based in Boston Spa, aims to provide family led care for children with life shortening conditions. It is a place where children, young people and their families can come to stay along their journey and find support, rest and practical help. The charity supports families across North, West and East Yorkshire both at its hospice and in the community.

Chris Chapman, who handed over the donation on behalf of Thomas the Baker, said: “Martin House is such a wonderful place and it’s always there for people when they need it. It can only continue to carry on its important work due to the donations it receives and so it was fantastic to be able to go and hand over the money raised in our stores. Although we always try and encourage people to reuse their bags, it is at least good to know that when bags are being purchased, the money adds up and can go and help people within our community.”