REPRESENTATIVES of Friends Provident International have visited Hospice Isle of Man to learn more about its work.

The charity committee at FPI chose Hospice as the main local charity it will support in 2011 by holding a cake sale in February.

A token was given out with every purchase to use in a ballot between three nominated good causes.

John Owen, chair of the charity committee at Friends Provident International, said: "Our people give a lot of time and energy to good causes and we wanted to give everyone the chance to help decide where money raised goes.

"We are delighted Hospice was chosen. It is an excellent charity and touches the lives of so many families in the Isle of Man.

"Staff here are committed to fundraising as much as possible to support Hospice over the next 12 months."

Mary Doyle, PR and marketing manager for Hospice, added: "We are thrilled to be working with Friends Provident International.

"We have been involved with them before and really look forward to working with the company during 2011. We have to raise £3.5 million a year and the support of local businesses is very important to us in achieving this."

FPI's charity committee raises money throughout the year.

The company also supports projects throughout the Island through its staff association and by offering the time and skills of its employees.

To find out more about FPI's Friends in the Community scheme call Lucy Smith on 821295.

Pictured left to right: Carole Whitfield of the Hospice fundraising team, FPI's internal communications and engagement consultant Caroline James, compliance consultant Leanne Broadhurst, external communications and engagement consultant Lucy Smith, Hospice Isle of Man PR and marketing manager Mary Doyle and Hospice Isle of Man fundraising and events coordinator Mary Dunne