Industry charity the Rainy Day Trust has received a much-needed boost of nearly £1,800 thanks to the generosity of guests at last week's Product of the Year Awards, organised by DIY Week and its sister magazine Housewares.
Responding to an appeal on behalf of the Trust by compere Adam Bloom, the 300 guests at the awards lunch contributed a total of £1,373. When tax relief under the Gift Aid scheme is taken into account, the value of the collection increases to £1,757 - and several more guests asked to be contacted afterwards to discuss ways they could help the Trust further.

"We're absolutely delighted," said RDT president Colin Petty. "Like so many charities, the Trust has suffered badly over the past few years - donations have slowed down, and the value of the investment portfolio which underpins the Trust's financial stability has dwindled. I'm immensely grateful to everyone who contributed to this donation."

Donations were entered into a prize draw to win a bottle of champagne. RDT general secretary Diane Stevens picked the winner out on the day.

Founded nearly 170 years ago, the Rainy Day Trust helps people who have spent a significant part of their working lives in the hardware and home improvement industry, and who now find they need a helping hand. The Trust provides annual grants, Christmas hampers, and contributions to major costs like stairlifts and other home improvements. To find out more, visit www.rainydaytrust.org.uk