Pictured above: David Christie (Edwards Trust, Volunteer Coordinator), John Pritchard (Aviva, Bonus Underwriter), Sarah Cooksey (Johnston Park McAndrew, Operations Director), Stephanie Bradbury (Edwards Trust, Appeals Coordinator), John Ashman (Aviva, Trading Manager)

A children's bereavement charity is £1,000 better-off, thanks to a big-hearted insurance broker.

Edgbaston-based Edward's Trust, which supports children and families through serious illness and bereavement, has been awarded £1,000 by the Aviva Club 110 Community Fund Programme.

The charity, nominated for the award by Halesowen-based insurance brokerage, Johnston Park McAndrew, faced strong competition from other good causes across the country.

Stephanie Bradbury, Appeals Coordinator for Edward's Trust, said:

"We were absolutely delighted to be nominated by Johnston Park McAndrew for this Award. We were humbled to see so many worthy causes nominated at the awards ceremony and thrilled to receive an award against such stiff competition.

"Every penny that we receive is really appreciated, especially during these tough economic times. It is fantastic that our bereavement work is recognised by individuals as well as local and national companies. Everyone at Edward's Trust is extremely grateful. "

Edward's Trust was formed in 1989 and provides support for anyone affected by the death of a child, whatever their age or cause of death. It also offers support for bereaved children of school age, either at the Trust, in schools, or through parents and carers.

Sarah Cooksey, Operations Director at Johnston Park McAndrew, said: "We have supported Edward's Trust for many years and have held various fundraising events involving all of our team members, raising £500 so far this year.

"Aviva gave us this wonderful opportunity to promote and help the Trust further by nominating them in the Club 110 Community Fund Programme. For us to win one of the awards was fantastic, and we know that the money received will help Edward's Trust continue the amazing work they do in the community."

The funding award will go towards helping Edward's Trust to extend the services that it provides, allowing the charity to offer pre-bereavement care for those with a parent or child suffering from a terminal illness.