CLAIRE House is now the proud owner of a new car thanks to a generous donation from Vauxhall.

The Ellesmere Port-based car manufacturer handed over the keys to the children’s hospice’s new Astra Sports Tourer on Thursday, February 20.

It will be used by the Claire House Fundraising Team to help support their local fundraising efforts, visiting groups, schools and businesses, and helping them spread the word about their work.

Pat Faragher, director of fundraising at Claire House, said: “These vehicles are absolutely essential to allow us to raise the funds we need to provide the very best possible care for children, young people and families that rely on our services.

Claire House has to raise £2.9m in 2014 to sustain the cost of the first class care for children and young people with complex medical conditions that they currently provide.

The donation of the Astra is therefore crucial in achieving their fundraising goals this year.

Vauxhall has donated a vehicle to Claire House each year since 2006 in recognition of the admirable work they do.

Ms Faragher added: “We’re delighted to yet again be supported by Vauxhall Ellesmere Port and everyone in our fundraising team looks forward to getting out into the community in our new vehicle.”