February 2010: Raymond Blanc and Le Manoir aux Quat'Saisons have reached out to local and national charities in the UK to help those in need and give them the kick start for 2010 that they so richly deserve.

Blanc commented: "I've always had a passionate interest in local and regional charities and truly understand the importance of support whenever possible. Our donations have been raised as part of the 2.5% reduction in VAT which Le Manoir aux Quat'Saisons did not pass on to guests but held in a charity fundraising account. It is wonderful to know that guests (who were aware of this initiative) fully supported my efforts. It is a testament to our business that we want to bring pleasure to all who visit Le Manoir and as part of a bigger family, we are all involved in helping these worthwhile causes!"

• Raymond Blanc and Le Manoir aux Quat'Saisons have donated £20,000 to See Saw. The cheque presentation was made last week in Oxford at the two Michelin starred restaurant. See Saw supports children who have a terminally ill relative or who have had bereavement in the family.

A further £10,000 per charity was awarded to the following good causes:

• Oxford Philomusica - community spirit lies at the heart of Oxford Philomusica's work and it has a continuous programme of work in schools, hospitals and community centres. Its far-reaching work in the community has included its artistic leadership of the celebrated Blackbird Leys Choir.

• Action Against Hunger – this is an international humanitarian organisation committed to saving the lives of malnourished children and their families in over 40 countries worldwide. One of the leading organisations in the fight against hunger and malnutrition, teams provide for people's immediate needs when food is scarce and provide families with the tools, seeds and support they need to build a sustainable future.

• Hospitality Action - this is the Hospitality Industry Benevolent Organisation, providing specialised support to all who work, or have worked within hospitality in the UK who through no fault of their own find themselves in a crisis. They support people suffering from life changing illnesses such as cancer, Huntingdon’s disease, Multiple Sclerosis and lung Disease as well as helping people who are experiencing poverty, domestic violence and bereavement. They also families with sick and disabled children.

• Lady Taverners - The Lady Taverners is part of The Lord's Taverners, the youth sports charity whose objective is to give young people a sporting chance. This year The Lord's Taverners will donate nearly £3 million to help young people of all abilities and backgrounds participate in sporting and recreational activities.