AN Earley-based company recently held a volunteering afternoon in aid of Reading homeless prevention charity Launchpad.

A team from Pioneer Group spent an afternoon at Woodley Allotment, where Launchpad has three plots.

READ MORE: Train passengers hit by 2.7 per cent rail fare rise

They were growing fresh fruit and vegetables for local food banks, soup kitchens and community fridges.

Lydia Swift, marketing manager at Pioneer Group, said: "We all really enjoyed helping dig the plot in preparation for Spring, ready for a new year of growing lots of fresh produce for the community.

"It was great to get stuck in and amazing to see what Launchpad are doing for vulnerable families with limited access to fresh ingredients.

READ MORE: Reading Slimming World consultants celebrate in style with Chatty Man Alan Carr

To help raise funds for the charity, the company teamed up with Coppa Club Sonning to host an evening of choir singing, as well as a charity raffle - donating a Samsung Smart television as first prize.

Paul Childerhouse, managing director at Pioneer Group, said: "It was a really special evening and wonderful to see all of the guests getting involved and supporting such an important charity, especially at this time of year."