Digital greetings card company encourages people to dig deep for charity

Jeremy Davis, 30, who co-founded the company along with brothers Craig and Miles Hartzel, said: "We came up with the idea five years ago, after Miles received more than 100 cards on his 30th birthday, and we realised how much money could have gone to charity, but it has only just come to fruition.

"The designs are very tasteful, not like most animated e-cards which can be quite tacky. They cost £1.99 with £1 going to charity - although the sender can donate more if they wish. Most people have been giving between £2 and £50.

"If the charity of the sender's choice is not yet on board, we send them a message saying that someone would like to donate some cash, which encourages them to sign up for the scheme.

"Our business is based on sales and we plan to take a small percentage eventually, although none of us are getting paid at the moment."

Cards received can be displayed on an innovative virtual mantelpiece, which can be personalised and shared with friends online.

Mr Davis, who grew up in Northwood, added: "After doing some research we found that charitable donations are down by £1.3billion this year, the equivalent of 11 per cent.

"The company makes giving fun and easy so charity can fit into everyone's lifestyles.

"Christmas is just around the corner and the season of good-will is the perfect time to put a good cause at the heart of a holiday message, and connect with friends and family in a more meaningful way.

"Being paper-free, the cards are also a great way to help the environment and also help to avoid the postal strikes."

For more information, visit www.charitygreetings.com.