A BURNHAM-ON-SEA law firm has raised £1,480 by offering its will-writing services free of charge, and instead asking for donations to fund charity work in the UK and abroad.

Merryweather Williams Solicitors, on College Street, has taken part in the Will Aid campaign since 1996. Will Aid has been running since 1988 and is open to all adults.

The sum of £30,020 has been collected through the generous efforts of volunteers who have dedicated their time and skills to writing up wills.

Rather than charging their standard fees for preparing basic wills, these volunteers worked free of charge and encouraged clients to contribute to Will Aid through donations.

Will Aid's donations will be shared between: ActionAid, Age UK, British Red Cross, Christian Aid, NSPCC, Save the Children, Sightsavers, SCIAF and Trócaire.

Richard Williams, from the firm, said: “We love taking part in Will Aid, and to raise so much for charity was a real team effort.

“The entire team is very proud to take part, and we’re delighted to have given so many people the reassurance of knowing they have a professionally written will.

“It’s a brilliant feeling to know that such well-deserving charities will benefit, helping people both here in the UK and abroad who are facing challenging times.”

The solicitors who have taken part in Will Aid since it launched have helped raise over £24 million in donations alone, with many millions more in charitable legacies.

Jonathan Chase, chair of Will Aid, said: “Huge congratulations to all the firms for raising such a staggering amount this year.

"It’s amazing that so many solicitors give their time to volunteer so generously, using their expertise to help people gain peace of mind by getting a professionally written will while fundraising for our incredible charities who do such crucial and life-changing work in the UK and around the world.

“On behalf of all the partner charities, a massive thank you and well done!”

Peter de Vena Franks, Will Aid’s campaign director, added: “What a great team effort from everyone who has taken part in this year’s Will Aid campaign.

Thank you to everyone who has harnessed their expertise and generosity to give their time, helping to protect people’s wishes and also supporting such worthwhile partner charities who are changing lives for the better.”

The suggested donation for a basic single Will is £100, and £180 for a pair of mirror Wills.

Will Aid is asking for more solicitors to take part in future events. For more information visit: www.willaid.org.uk.