Norwich-based independent financial advisers Almary Green have announced the launch of their 2018 charity awards.

The Almary Green Awards programme, now in its eighth year, provides grants for local charities and good causes from an annual £10,000 fund.

Managing director Carl Lamb said: 'I believe that it's right and proper to share our success with those less fortunate than ourselves. It's important to recognise that many thousands of volunteers are working hard to help those in need and we want to play a part in making sure they can continue to do so.'

The awards have so far benefited 112 causes in East Anglia since their launch in 2011.

Last year's awards featured donations to a diverse range of organisations including Time Norfolk who provide free, confidential support to men and women who have experienced a pregnancy loss through miscarriage, termination or still birth and the North Norfolk Surf Lifesaving Club - a voluntary organisation whose lifesaving programme provides an education and development pathway for participants in North Norfolk.

Another award recipient in 2017 was Waveney Sailability which used its £2,000 award to help purchase a replacement hoist to allow individuals with disabilities to experience sailing in specially designed or adapted boats.

Jon Blankley of Waveney Sailability said 'We're very grateful for the support of organisations like Almary Green, who make it possible for us to offer the challenge and freedom of sailing to individuals who otherwise find their lives significantly restricted.'

Award recipients are selected by a panel which includes Mr Lamb and members of the Almary Green team.

'We pick nominees that benefit as wide a range of good causes as possible,' he said. 'Some will benefit the disabled, others will contribute to disadvantaged communities. We pick charities that help children, of course, but also those that benefit the older generation. The only stipulation we make is that our donation must make a tangible difference.'

Nominations are invited this year for awards of between £1,000 and £3,000. Good causes can be nominated by the organisations themselves or by third parties at www.almarygreen.com/awards by August 31.