A car dealership's Christmas charity initiative celebrates its 10th Christmas this year, having donated a total of £12,500 worth of gifts to charities across the UK over the years.

Swansway, which operates 24 dealerships from Birmingham to Carlisle, has carried out its seasonal tradition, Santa Patrol, across various locations throughout the country.

As part of the festive initiative, the group has distributed a range of items including toys for babies, children and teens, Christmas food supplies, and warm winter clothing to those in need.

The donations catered to each charity's specific needs, factoring in the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.

In Carlisle, working alongside Cumbria Family Support, the group donated toys to children through their Carlisle Audi retailer.

Business manager of Cumbria Family Support, Sarah Cooper said: "At Cumbria Family Support we are seeing a huge increase in the number of families needing support, and the complexity of support required.

"The gifts that Carlisle Audi have again provided, for the fourth year running, make a wonderful difference for our families.

"It’s not just the delight of the marvellous gifts themselves, it’s also the fact that someone cares enough to give the gift that means so much to our families.

"So once again Swansway a huge thank you from us all at Cumbria Family Support."

Swansway has made significant strides in charity work over the years.

In 2023 alone, the motor group contributed almost £80,000 to numerous charitable causes including food bank donations, supporting team members' fundraising efforts, and forming partnerships with four community foundations around the country.

Swansway Motor Group Director David Smyth, said, "Christmas should be a time of joy and celebration for everyone, no matter what your circumstances may be.

"Our Swansway Santa Patrol aims to spread some Christmas magic to those children and families who need it the most.

"From the Swansway Family to yours, we wish all a Merry Christmas."

Mr Smyth added: "It’s important to us all at Swansway that we are active within the communities that have welcomed and supported us over the last 20 years, and 2023 has been no exception.

"This year we have further strengthened relationships with existing charity partners, whilst also building new ones and we look forward to continuing our work in 2024."