A Hitchin jewellery firm has donated thousands of pounds raised by a raffle to a counselling charity.

Market Place-based Gatwards has amassed £3,000 for Tilehouse Counselling – whose director Sue Barnes said the money would pay for an extra 100 counselling sessions for young people aged from 13 to 19.

She said: “They come to Tilehouse Counselling for a host of reasons, including depression and anxiety, problems at home and at school, bereavement and loss, issues around sexuality, bullying and self-harm.

“They often describe Tilehouse as a ‘lifeline’, which is why we work so hard to keep our vital services open and available to those who need it.

“We are deeply grateful to Gatwards for recognising the value of the work we do and for their generosity in supporting us. It is always especially gratifying to receive local support.”

To find out more, call 01462 440674 or see tilehouse.org.