The Big Give Christmas Challenge raises £6 million in 2 days

The Big Give's annual Christmas Challenge has got off to a flying start, doubling over 7,000 donations to raise £6million in the first 2 days.

This is the third Christmas Challenge run on theBigGive.org.uk and looks set to be largest yet.

Donations from the public are being doubled by a number of generous sponsors, including Arts & Business, Reed Specialist Recruitment and the Garfield Weston Foundation.

The Challenge is supporting 323 charities which span all sectors, from children and health to environment and arts. Participating charities range from international aid agencies, such as Oxfam, to small, local hospices.

Richard from the National Star College, an education provider for disabled young people said "We have had both existing and first time donors giving, it is a fantastic incentive for people to donate".

The J's Hospice were one of the first charities to hit their target, raising  £10,000.  Nick Garner said “This will make such a difference to the young people, their families and carers.”

The 2010 Challenge was launched at the Fortnum & Mason Charity Christmas Party.  1,000 guests and celebrities enjoyed champagne, festive food and top entertainment from Big Give charities.  The night raised a total of £80,000, with each guest deciding which charity benefited from their ticket.

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