Home improvement industry charity the Rainy Day Trust has substantially enlarged its range of activity by merging with the Pottery and Glass Trades Benevolent Fund.
"This is a significant step for us," said Rainy Day Trust president Philip Duncan. "It increases our assets, thanks to the PGTBF's reserves and investments. But it also increases our liabilities, taking on responsibility for PGTBF trustees: as of today, the number of beneficiaries receiving help from the Rainy Day Trust will rise by about 15%."

Now approaching its 170th birthday, the Rainy Day Trust already helps people who have worked in the DIY, hardware, housewares and home improvement industries.

"This merger means that we can now extend assistance to more beneficiaries, and it also creates the opportunity for us to raise the profile of the Rainy Day Trust in the tableware and housewares market," said Mr Duncan.

Two PGTBF trustees, Neville Singer and Leigh Baildham, are joining the board of the Rainy Day Trust, while PGTBF secretary Audrey Smith is retiring after many years of service. All PGTBF issues will now be handled by Rainy Day Trust general secretary Diane Stevens.

To find out more about the Rainy Day Trust and its activities, and about the Pottery and Glass Trades Benevolent Fund, contact Diane Stevens on 0121 237 1130, or go to www.rainydaytrust.org.uk