Shrewsbury drop-in-centre chosen as Marks & Spencer's charity of the year

The Ark, a drop-in centre in Shrewsbury that helps homeless and vulnerable people, was chosen by the company and kicked off its 12-month campaign with a pub quiz which raised £125 for the charity.

The store will also host an ongoing fundraising campaign with a range of activities and events, from bag packing and cake bakes, to football tournaments and a music festival.

Tim Compton, manager at Shrewsbury Ark, said: "We are delighted to have been chosen as Marks & Spencer's charity of the year. As a charity, we rely heavily on the support from local businesses and the general public to enable us to support the vulnerable. The money raised by M&S Shrewsbury will help to ensure that our services remain available for those most in need in our community."

Alison Coffey, M&S Shrewsbury's finance and operations manager, said: "Shrewsbury Ark is very close to the team here at M&S Shrewsbury as the charity works at the heart of the community, helping homeless and vulnerable people get back on their feet. For that reason they were an obvious choice for our support this year. We look forward to working with Shrewsbury Ark for many months to come."

Shrewsbury Ark is an independently-run day centre, seeking to help and support some of the most disadvantaged members of the community.

The charity provides a safe and welcoming environment where all individuals can find refuge in times of distress. It offers practical help and support to those in need, as well as advice, guidance and encouragement to those who wish to make positive changes in their lives.

Kevin Lockwood, manager of the Darwin, Pride Hill and Riverside Shopping Centres, said: "Staff at M&S here in Shrewsbury really throw themselves into their charity work and I'm sure this will be another successful campaign."