

Claire House Charity
Local charity Claire House has received a boost to its funds, thanks to leading law firm Irwin Mitchell.
The firm, which specialises in personal injury and clinical negligence work, announced at its annual dinner in Manchester recently that it had selected the Wirral-based children's respite centre as its chosen charity for 2009.
Commenting Pat Faragher, corporate fundraising manager for the charity said; "We are delighted to have been adopted by the firm. The announcement is fantastic news for all at Claire House and a very encouraging way to start the year.
She continued: "2008 was a very difficult period for us and we were hit hard like many other charities by the economic climate. The commitment by Irwin Mitchell will really help the charity to carry on providing the service we do to children with life threatening or life limiting conditions and their families from across Merseyside, Cheshire, North Wales and the Isle of Man."
To kick start its fundraising programme for the year, the firm secured over £2,300 for the charity at its annual dinner held at Manchester's famous Chinese eatery the Yang Sing.
On behalf of Irwin Mitchell, Stephanie Forman leading clinical negligence lawyer said: "Due to the nature of the work we do, we have seen first hand how the hospice helps children and their families cope through very difficult times. It really is a home from home environment and the care that is provided is second to none."
Irwin Mitchell will be running a number of fundraising events during the next 12 months to support the work of the charity.