NATWEST staff from Swindon and the surrounding area have given more than £14,000 to charity in the last 12 months, thanks to the bank's "Give As You Earn" scheme.

Staff have been encouraged to donate directly to charity from their pay packet each month, with the bank also helping by "double matching" contributions. For every pound donated the bank gives £2, up to £200 a month for each employee.

Nigel Crutchley, Natwest's regional managing director, said: "Payroll giving is a highly effective way to donate to charity.

"Money is taken straight from the employer and the taxman adds an

extra 10 per cent to each donation. It really is a great way to donate money."