BUSINESS-to-business energy broker Business Juice created a different form of advent calendar at Christmas.

During the 25 days of the 2014 Christian festival, which ran from November 30 until Christmas Eve, it donated £5 from every sale made to Acorns Children's Hospice.

Company chief executive James Constant said: "We’re delighted to have achieved so much in such a short time and wanted to help those in less favourable positions. I have a five year old son so Acorns is a cause close to my heart. What better way to celebrate a great year than to share your good fortune with a well-loved charity. With all the staff at Business Juice behind the idea, we raised £1,310 in just 18 working days."

Charlotte Anson, new business development officer at Acorns, added: "We really appreciate support from local businesses. Staff at Business Juice have made a real impact by helping us to deliver care and support services to local children with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions. We rely on voluntary fundraising for the majority of the £8 million plus per year it costs to provide our vital care so we are thrilled the company are so kindly supporting us.”

Both parties will be continuing their relationship later this year when Acorns kick off their Keep Dancing For Acorns event on Saturday, March 28.