Online gaming company Celton Manx is inviting applications for Recognition 2020, its sponsorship programme offering support to local charities and not-for-profit organisations, with limited resources for promoting and developing their services.

Celton Manx executive director Bill Mummery said: ’2020 will be the fifth year of our Recognition scheme and we continue to be moved by the commitment and enthusiasm shown by so many individuals and volunteer groups working tirelessly to transform people’s lives.

’The third sector’s professionalism, knowledge, skills and, crucially, its ability to deliver targeted services efficiently and cost effectively, are becoming all the more valuable to government.

’Delivering and developing these services comes at an increasing cost that is placing mounting pressure on these third sector organisations’ already hard-pressed budgets.

’Recognition is not only our response to the challenges the third sector is facing but also an expression of our support for the dedication and inventiveness shown by so many when targeting need.

’It is our sincere hope that the awards, be they financial or practical support, will serve as a means to bring heightened visibility to the work of voluntary organisations, help them to advance their services and alert a wider audience to their contribution in our community.’

Janet Bridle of Southern Community Initiatives Hub Club said: ’Small charities like ours benefit hugely from the generosity and community-minded actions of local companies like Celton Manx.’

Julie Stokes of Mannin Cancers, said: ’As a newly formed Manx charity we were thrilled to receive financial help from Celton Manx towards our first project to fund transperineal biopsy equipment that will help patients in the island diagnosed with prostate cancer and save them from having to travel to the UK.’

Sandy Denning, executive officer of Isle of Man Anti-Cancer Association, said: ’To be a recipient of a Celton Manx Recognition award enabled us to produce fundraising packs with money boxes - something we have wanted to do for a long time.

’This also prompted us to re-vamp our literature, pop-up banners and website, thus strengthening the profile of our charity.

’We are very grateful for the support.’

To apply for Recognition 2020 visit celtonmanx.com/recognition.

Closing date for applications is Saturday, January 4. 2020.