WORCESTERSHIRE express delivery giant TNT is riding on a high as its drive to improve the quality of life of thousands of disadvantaged children in the region shows no sign of letting up following its latest bumper charity donation.

The company, of Hartlebury Trading Estate, Hartlebury, has played a major part in taking the total amount raised for the Wooden Spoon children’s charity past the £2.5m mark.

TNT is the biggest single benefactor of the charity, which focuses on helping children who are disadvantaged mentally, physically or socially. TNT and Wooden Spoon supported projects benefiting in the region include the Worcester Snoezelen and the Playing for Success Scheme run by Worcester Warriors, where more than £31,500 has been pumped into projects.

Depot general manager, Adrian Avery, said: “We always strive to beat our previous best in all that we do as a company and generating funds for the Spoon is no exception, but the onset of the recession has made it especially challenging.

“Now we’re all focusing on our next big target – trying to hit the £3 million mark – and we’re hopeful we’ll be able to deliver the next £500,000 within the next two years.

“Our people are amazingly creative and resourceful when it comes to raising money for the ‘Spoon’. We’re still in the grip of a recession but the generosity of our employees continues to shine through. It makes me very proud to see our achievements when it comes to helping those most in need.”

During 2009, more than 400 employees have visited a Spoon-supported project to see how their donations have such a positive influence on the lives of youngsters.

Since its launch, more than 2,000 TNT employees have participated in the programme, helping forge even stronger bonds between the company, the charity and ultimately, the children.