Greetings!

As we sign-off at the end of what has been a turbulent year for the sector, we hope the 1,370 news stories we have brought you in 2010 have kept you enlightened, the 285 blogs and opinions have inspired you, and the 300+ surveys, in-depth features, index reports, legal briefings and model documents have helped you keep on top of your game. We look forward to helping you through a very prosperous 2011.

From the Civil Society team,

Merry Christmas!

Boost for RSPCA as it wins latest legacy appeal

The RSPCA has won its appeal over the legacy of George Mason, and will receive more than two-thirds of the £1m will.

Attorney General asks charity tribunal to examine public benefit of benevolent funds

The Attorney General plans to make a reference to the charity tribunal to determine whether benevolent funds satisfy the public benefit test.

Brookes questions Funding Commission's "incredible" giving prediction

The Funding Commission's suggestion that private giving could be increased by £11.3bn via a mere £12.2m investment is "far too optimistic", according to New Philanthropy Capital.

Muslim Aid cleared of links with terror groups

The Charity Commission's investigation into Muslim Aid's alleged links with Hamas has concluded that the allegations are not substantiated.

Strong year for Wellcome Trust investment portfolio

The Wellcome Trust, the UK's largest investment charity, recorded an 11.1 per cent return in the year to September 2010, meaning it has now offset the losses it incurred in 2007/08.

Battle to overturn Apple's charity donation ban gathers momentum

A petition calling on Steve Jobs to end Apple's ban on charity donation apps for the iPhone has gained nearly 8,000 signatories.

Cancer Research cancels Run 10k series

Cancer Research has confirmed that it will not hold any more Run 10k events, stating that the race series has come to a "natural conclusion".

Complete the Charity Pay Ratio Survey

In response to debate around the introduction of a 'pay ratio' for public sector organisations, Charity Finance guest editor Andrew Hind issues his request for help researching the situation in the charity sector.

Benevolent funds do provide public benefit

Hilary Greengrass highlights the importance of benevolent funds in light of the news that the Attorney General is examining whether they really do provide public benefit.

Digital-do's in online giving

A digital relationship can be difficult to maintain. Jonathan Grapsas offers his advice on how to ensure you bag your online donors for the long-haul.