Swansway Garages sent 666 disabled and disadvantaged children for a once-in-a-lifetime circus training experience thanks to a £13,200 fund-raising effort.

The Crewe-based dealer group donated £20, (the equivalent of a ticket for one child and their carer), for every vehicle sold on the Motability scheme during 2016 to fund the programme, carried out in partnership with the not-for-profit Circus Starr troupe.

Simone Unett, sales manager and trainer for Circus Starr, said: “Our shows are a way of taking children out of their everyday lives, whether they are disabled or disadvantaged, Circus Starr takes them to another world, of enjoyment, wonder and laughter.

“Parents and carers and indeed the children themselves, tell us what a wonderful experience Circus Starr is and we love giving kids and their carers a never to be forgotten outing.

“We want to thank Swansway for helping us to make memories. That’s what Circus Starr does and this donation has helped us to make special memories for over six hundred and fifty more children in 2016, which is so wonderful for us.”

Swansway Motor Group director Dave Smyth said: “As a family owned and run business, we know how important families are and we know that some families and children face real challenges.

“Circus Starr brings fun and magic into the lives of these children, I’ve seen the smiles and heard the laughter, I know, at first hand, what a fantastic job this charity does. I’m proud that Swansway has helped create magical memories for hundreds of children”.

Swansway have been so impressed with the Circus Starr programme that they will carry on their support for 2017, once again donating £20 for every vehicle sold on the Motability scheme.