Trowbridge refuge Amber has received a massive fundraising boost after being selected as charity of the year by a London law firm.

Macfarlanes, who employ around 300 staff, chose Amber from a selection of nominees put forward by employees.

After a short presentation from residents, Amber, which has a centre in Bythesea Road, Trowbridge, won the vote to be their charity of the year.

Now staff at the firm are conducting a number of activities to raise sponsorship for Amber, including hosting a quiz, and competing in 10 km races.

They have already held a cabaret evening at which some of Amber’s residents performed a song from the West End musical “Oliver”.

Sue Condie, PR and fundraising director for Amber, said: “We’re hugely indebted and absolutely thrilled that Macfarlanes have chosen to support us. It’s a huge boost to our fundraising.”

It is hoped that up to £30,000 could be raised for the charity.

Amber is a residential home that helps unemployed homeless young people overcome personal barriers and gain the skills, confidence and self-esteem they need to find work, accommodation and independent living.

Steven Pitchford, Macfarlanes’ head of corporate social responsibility, said: “Amber is giving young people the chance of a fulfilling and productive future that many of us take for granted.

“It is clearly providing just the right environment for them to feel safe and to become better equipped to deal with life and staff at Macfarlanes had no hesitation in choosing Amber as the charity they wanted to support.”