MEMBERS of Malvern Junior Hockey Club are playing in bright new kit - and helping to train a new hockey coach and umpire.

Trainee coach Ian Londesbrough, who is a business analyst manager in npower's Worcester office, arranged for the company to give £500 for the team's stylish new red shirts and green shorts.

The money came through the company's Community Volunteers scheme, which provides support for employees who give up their spare time for worthy causes.

Ian practises his coaching skills during training sessions at Malvern's Chase High School with the Juniors, aged five to 16.

Philip Kear, who heads the Community Volunteers scheme, said npower was committed to helping a wide range of charities and local projects.

"Staff can apply for financial support on behalf of organisations with which they are involved. We've also expanded the scheme, so that staff who would like to become volunteers can be matched with local community groups requiring assistance," he said.

Community groups needing volunteers can call Michelle Hannon at npower on 01905 340627.