Staff at a Colne-based company have raised £2,000 as part of an appeal to help vulnerable young people.

Employees at GB Integrated Systems (GBIS) raised £1,000 by selling tickets for the Positive Action in the Community (PAC) Big Prize Draw.

GBIS director Scott Earing has since doubled their efforts by match-funding the amount.

The PAC Big Prize Draw is an opportunity for people to support a local charity as well as be in with a chance to win a £5,000 holiday voucher. 

PAC is a local charity committed to assisting individuals facing youth homelessness, domestic abuse, and emotional well-being challenges. 

PAC's partnership and community engagement officer, Leroy Philbrook, said: "This money will make a real difference in East Lancashire.

"For example £300 can provide six weeks of counselling for someone struggling with their mental health, and every £1,000 goes a long way towards the 24-hour support we offer in PAC’s 33 apartments for young people facing homelessness. 

"We're deeply grateful to everyone who has entered the Prize Draw and hope to reach our £20,000 target." 

GB Integrated Systems specialises in fire, security, communications, audio-visual and automation systems.

Scott Earing said, "As the Director of GBIS and Sponsor I am not allowed to buy tickets for myself but I had this idea of buying tickets for my employees to match their fundraising efforts and it has really taken off with four staff, in particular, leading the charge in ticket sales; Jonny Stansfield, Lisa Shovelton, James Whipp and Anna Smith.

"I have been a long-term supporter of PAC and their work with young people is crucial for the future of East Lancashire.

“I hope my match funding efforts sets an example for business owners and encourage others to join GBIS in supporting Positive Action in the Community.” 

Businesses, including Pillow Partners Lancashire, Chic Boutique Travel, and Zest Document Solutions have also supported the appeal.

The PAC Big Prize Draw is open until the end of August, with winners to be announced live on Facebook in early September. 

You can find out more at PAC's website.