A substantial donation to a children's ward will make the world of difference, thanks to one law firm.

The Charitable Trust of Battens Solicitors, one of the South West's leading law firms, has donated £500 to the Children's Ward at Yeovil Hospital.

The donation will go towards buying a wide ranging provision of arts and crafts equipment to engage children and young people and help them maintain their fine motor skills and concentration.

Some children have to stay in hospital for long periods of time and research has shown that creative and interactive activities can speed up their recovery.

The products will be particularly useful for sick children who have to stay in hospital on special occasions, such as Christmas, birthdays and other family occasions. They can use the equipment to create displays, gifts and cards and to celebrate the occasion, despite being stuck in hospital.

James Kirton, head of fundraising at Yeovil Hospital Charity, said: "All donations to Yeovil Hospital Charity make a real and tangible difference for patients.

"We are going to use this donation from Battens Charitable Trust to fund some arts and crafts equipment for the children’s ward and this will provide children with hours and hours of entertainment and distraction at what can often be a difficult time for them away from home.

“Donations are not always used to fund big projects like new scanners and new facilities; it is often the small things that can make a patient’s life a little easier or their time in hospital a little more comfortable. Our play leader will use this new equipment to make children feel less anxious about their stay in hospital.”

Ray Edwards, a director at Battens Solicitors and a trustee of its Charitable Trust added: "We are delighted to have been able to donate £500 to the Children’s Ward at Yeovil Hospital.

"Our thanks go out to everyone who has supported our Charitable Trust. It has become greatly respected for its community focus over the years, but without the generosity of the people who donate to it, we would not be able to help fantastic causes like this.”

Battens’ Charitable Trust was set up in 1985 to support local initiatives, charities and other worthy causes.

Battens Solicitors has officers in both Weymouth and Dorchester.

The Trust has donated more than £500,000 to good causes in just over 20 years.

If you would like to make a donation to Battens Solicitors’ Charitable Trust or apply for a grant, email bct@battens.co.uk or call 01935 846000.