The Bus Shelter Project for the homeless has been chosen by employees of Island Roads as their charity of the year.

Each year Island Roads’ staff have the opportunity to vote on which charity to support with their various fundraising activities and this year the Bus Shelter project topped the poll.

Island Roads communications officer Helen Williams said: “We have 200 staff living on the Island and naturally they are keen to support a local good cause that is making a real difference – the Bus Project was chosen from a number of very worthy causes and we hope to be able to raise a good amount for them over the year.”

The Bus Shelter project is working to end the need for people sleeping rough on the Island and provides safe overnight accommodation for up to 16 rough sleepers in a converted double decker bus

Kevin Newton, project founder said he was surprised and pleased to learn the project had been chosen as Island Roads’ Charity of the Year.

Kevin said: “Plans for the future include opening a charity shop and a waste food sandwich shop, run by the homeless with supervision and where 100% of profits go to the homeless employees to help save for deposits and rent.

“Funds raised by Island Roads employees will really help with these future plans.”

Last year, Island Roads staff raised £2,148 for their chosen charity Beaulieu Respite.