BENTLEY Manchester has put its weight behind a Longridge community charity, aiming to raise £30,000 – as well as awareness – for the Welcome Café.

The Mobberley Road dealership has set up a money-counting ‘thermometer’ in its showroom as it looks to encourage donations to the community centre, which recently underwent an extensive refurbishment.

George Osborne, who will stay on as a patron of the Welcome Café after he is succeeded as Tatton MP, was on hand last week to unveil the totaliser.

A spokesman for the Welcome Café, said: “Despite a recent, successful fundraising lunch and refurbishment, The Welcome continues to need significant financial support from the Knutsford community and businesses every month in order to continue to operate.

“The Welcome is entirely dependent on charitable donations to provide support for the residents of the Longridge and Shaw Heath Estates, which – although located in one of the wealthiest areas of the country – are ranked as some of most disadvantaged places in the UK.

“Despite the ongoing challenges of funding a community centre such as The Welcome entirely from voluntary donations, The Welcome continues to perform a vital role in the community, fighting social isolation and helping people find out how to access key services.

“The demand for the services provided by The Welcome, are up by 20 per cent in the last two years. It is a constant struggle to ensure that The Welcome has the financial resources to meet the ever-increasing demand of the community.

“For this reason, Bentley Manchester’s initiative to raise money for deserving local charities in very much appreciated by The Welcome as every penny raised will help improve the quality of life for some of the most needy people in Knutsford.”

A Bentley Manchester spokesman said: “Bentley Manchester is delighted to be supporting the Welcome Café. We want to give back to the local community and help those in need.

“We understand that The Welcome is always looking voluntary work but especially donations. We therefore decided to set ourselves a target to raise funds through charity events and creating overall awareness for the help needed.

“We are excited to be a part of the lasting future of The Welcome and encourage everyone to donate and join us to help make a difference.”