A CHAGFORD-based company is pledging to give its VAT savings to four charities, as a gesture of kindness and goodwill during the recent financial crisis.

Helpful Holidays say the Marine Conservation Society (MCS), the RNLI, Farms for City Children and Devon Air Ambulance will all benefit from thousands of pounds over the year due to the recent reduction in VAT.

Helpful Holidays will save around 50p for every £100 that holidaymakers spend with them, due to only paying the tax on their commission, not the full price of the holiday.

Helpful Holidays general manager Moray Bowater said: 'In these challenging times, charities are also seeing a down turn in their much needed donations.

'We are delighted to be able to help four such worthy causes and am sure the funds will be put to good use.'