Marie Curie Cancer Care is urging more businesses to follow in the footsteps of Brace's Bakery and help fight cancer with payroll donations.

More than 30 members of Brace's staff will contribute directly to the charity from their monthly pay, following visits from Marie Curie at the two sites of the family business in Gwent.

Isabella Rossi, supporter recruitment manager for Marie Curie Cancer Care, said: "Payroll Giving is one of the easiest ways to donate funds to our charity and once a Payroll Giving scheme has been set up everything is done for you. There are no cheques involved, no forms to complete, no letters to send and your donations are all potentially tax efficient, which helps both you and us.

"Brace's have been extremely supportive and their generosity is much appreciated by us and the patients and their families who benefit from our support."

Established in 1902 by George Brace, Brace's is now run by the fourth generation of the family, Mark and Jonathan, and overseen by their father Colin.

Michelle Hughes, head of communications for Brace's Bakery, said: "Cancer is a terrible disease that can affect anyone. In fact, four in ten people will develop cancer at some time in their life and this worrying statistic is why we are so supportive. I'm pleased that members of staff have signed up to donate to Marie Curie direct from their pay and I'm sure more will sign-up in the near future.

"I know this will make a big difference to the charity to help them continue caring for people living with cancer in the area. There are also tax benefits. For example, if a person pledges £5 from their gross salary each month the cost to them is only £3.90 and yet Marie Curie Cancer Care receives £5.50.

"I'm not going to notice the money coming out of my pay each month but I know over the year this will mount up and will be put to good use. I've been told that every £20 will pay for one hour of nursing care in a patient's home and it's good to know that I'm helping other people.

"But, it's not just about fundraising. Having the Marie Curie staff at our sites gave our staff easy access to information on cancer services and information in their local communities."