A St Albans charity will be given more than £5,000 after a fund-raising campaign by a high street retail giant. 

Centre 33, which provides a meeting place, meals, essential clothing and washing facilities to homeless people, will receive the cash raised by Marks and Spencer.

The cash donation was raised by staff taking part in activities ranging from cake sales, a quiz evening and a sponsored walk over the last twelve months.

Mark Arbeid, chairman of Centre 33, said: "I am overwhelmed by the generosity of Marks and Spencer and its customers, who gave so generously to raise this huge amount of money.  

"We are a local charity in every sense - run by local volunteers, supported by local donors and helping local people - and to receive this level of support from a local business means a great deal to us.  

"Thank you to everyone who has fundraised and donated."

Rachel Dennis, store manager at M&S St Albans, said: "Each year M&S stores select a local charity to support and we are delighted that the St Albans team has been able to raise important funds for Centre 33, enabling them to continue providing crucial services to our local community. 

"The team has been really enthusiastic in their efforts to raise money to help Centre 33 and have raised an incredible amount."