Arnold Clark employees have donated almost £20,000 to charities across the UK as part of its Change for Charity initiative that supports food banks, youth groups and other community organisations.

Arnold Clark's Change for Charity scheme is an optional scheme that allows employees to donate the change from their pay checks to a nominated local charity.

This scheme is only one part of Arnold Clark’s charitable contributions; the retailer gives further donations to other national charities and groups throughout the year.

Lynne McBurney, group people director at Arnold Clark, said: ‘Our employees are at the heart of everything we do and it’s great to help support them to give back to their local community.

‘Choosing local charities that our employees have suggested we support via the Change for Charity initiative has not only allowed us to donate to smaller organisations, but, alongside our Community Fund, helps us to build fantastic relationships with them going forward too.’

Each charity has received an £800 donation from Arnold Clark.

FetLor in Edinburgh is Scotland's oldest youth club and forms a haven for many young people whose everyday lives may be threatened by drugs, violence or neglect.

A spokesperson for FetLor Youth Club said: 'We want to thank Arnold Clark for this wonderful gift. FetLor will use this money to support our young people who are undertaking the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.

Scottish Exotic Animal Rescue (SEAR) rely on donations help them care for all the rescue animals they take in.

Christopher Evans, chairperson at SEAR, added: 'As a small independent charity, we rely on donations like this to look after the vulnerable animals in our care. With this money, SEAR will be able to help these animals recover and find them new forever homes.'