AN Old Trafford charity’s coffers were boosted by more than £8,000 after concerted fundraising efforts by young volunteers.

A group of 16-25 year olds working through vinvolved Trafford - an organisation which puts young volunteers in touch with charities and good causes - raised cash for Henshaws Society for Blind People through a variety of means, including bucket collections at Manchester United and even sponsored sky dives.

Stretford volunteers Katie Chapman and Rajiv Sethi, both 17, and Jonathan Shaw, 20, from Hale, dropped in to Henshaws’ Centre to present the cheque.

Katie raised nearly £700 doing a sky dive after vinvolved visited her class at Loreto Grammar School in Altrincham.

She said: “Seeing the work they do here at Henshaws really touches you. Until I came here I didn’t realise how much they provide for blind and visually impaired people.”

Jonathan, a student at Trafford College, now visits Henshaws once a week and provides support to their children and families service.

“Volunteering opens up another world to you. I’d definitely encourage other young people to volunteer,” he told Messenger.

Simon Laing, Henshaws’ director of fundraising, added: “It is fantastic young people are supporting Henshaws through vinvolved.

“Our services couldn’t run without volunteers – and the funds they raise allow us to continue supporting local people with sight loss.”

If you are between 16 and 25 and interested in volunteering with vinvolved contact the group on 962 1880, or e-mail morven.maclean@vinvolved-team.org.uk for more information.