A GRAPHICS company in York is looking for 12 local charity events to support in 2009 as a novel way to celebrate 25 years in business.

Display and exhibition specialist Dayfield Graphics Ltd decided to help ease the pressure community charities face during the credit crunch.

Martin Stephenson, its managing director, said: “We thought about champagne and parties to mark our 25 years anniversary, but with so many local events under financial pressure this year it just felt right to channel our energies into helping others instead. “We’ve always been York-based and it’s good to put something back into the community.”

Now he wants to hear from community groups who may need the kind of support he and his team can offer. “We are looking to get involved in an event each month throughout 2009 and we are keen to hear from groups in need,” he said.

Dayfield has already agreed to produce graphic panels at no cost for Visit York Residents’ Festival, which are on show at the HSBC Bank in Parliament Street, York, until Friday, as part of its Treasures Of The Archives display.

On Wednesday, Dayfield teams up with York-based Shepherd Construction to provide an exhibition stand and displays for St Leonard’s Hospice, during Venturefest at York Racecourse.

Martin said: “We’re lining up to sponsor a line-dancing event in Rowntree Park in the early summer, but that still leaves nine charity slots to fill and we’re eager to help,”

It was Martin’s father, David Stephenson, who set up Dayfield Graphics with Peter Banfield in 1984. It was one of the first companies to make its home at Clifton Moor Business Park.

Martin joined the firm in 1987, and in September 1997 the business moved to its current premises at Concorde Park, Clifton Moor.

Peter retired in 1991, and Martin and his wife, Andrea, took over the helm when David retired in 2004.

Its eight-strong team today provides exhibition and display services to businesses across the UK and Europe.

Local organisations or charities who would like Dayfield’s help in 2009 should contact Martin via the website www.dayfieldgraphics.co.uk