CAKE sales, competitions and physical challenges have helped fundraisers at a Brierley Hill law firm smash their previous charity fundraising record.

Higgs & Sons have presented a record breaking £23,994.66 to the Stroke Association, the company's 2016 charity of the year, topping last year’s £17,000 total.

Tim Jones, partner, said: “It is a real testament to everyone here at Higgs that a firm of our size is able to raise such a phenomenal amount of money.

“But even more remarkable is the hard work, dedication and commitment of colleagues who not only help to fundraise but give untold hours to working directly with our charities, making a real difference to our community.”

Among the fundraising activities throughout the year were quizzes, runs, bake offs and concerts as well as a successful 10th anniversary football tournament that saw 48 teams help raise £7,000.

Louise Lawless, The Stroke Association’s community and events fundraising manager, said: “With around 152,000 strokes in the UK each year, it’s vital we have people like the team at Higgs & Sons to help raise funds.

“We’re incredibly grateful to them for choosing to support the Stroke Association and going above and beyond to raise a staggering amount of money.

“The funds raised will go a long way in helping to support people who are living with the effects of stroke, as well as their families and carers.”

Staff at the Waterfront-based firm have chosen to support national children’s cause the NSPCC as their 2017 charity.

Mr Jones added: “Everyone at Higgs is involved in choosing the charity of the year, and all of the nominated organisations do terrific work which makes it an extremely tough decision.

“However, after much deliberation we are thrilled to announce that the Higgs & Sons charity for the year 2017 is the NSPCC.

“We look forward to working alongside them to raise much needed funds and awareness of the work they carry out in our community.”