A car rally which took a 50-mile route through Essex has raised funds to buy a new minibus and specialist equipment for Variety, the Children’s Charity.

Variety has been chosen as a charity partner by national housebuilder Bellway. The company has pledged to raise funds for six specially adapted minibuses, known as Sunshine Coaches, for SEND schools in regions where Bellway operates. The first Sunshine Coach was presented to a school in South Shields, Tyne and Wear, earlier in the year.

Bellway’s Regional Chair for the Southeast, Ian Gorst, organised the ‘Variety Charity Drive’ with the aim of funding a new Variety Sunshine Coach. The event raised over £60,000 through entry fees, sponsorship and donations with the proceeds double matched by Bellway.

Ian said: “The partnership with Variety has really captured the hearts of everyone at Bellway. When the first Sunshine Coach was delivered, hearing about the impact and seeing the smiles on the children’s faces was inspirational.

“In the South East we have teams planning all kinds of events to boost fundraising efforts, and it was only right that the senior team should play its part.

“The most effective charity events bring together purpose and passion. We wanted to link with the theme of transport with the fact that many of our colleagues, suppliers and other contacts own classic or modern classic cars.

“The support we received was exceptional and we are grateful to everyone who took part in the event or donated. It was an enjoyable day based around a shared ambition to fund a new Variety Sunshine Coach.”

More than 40 drivers took part, travelling from North Weald Airfield in Epping to Nethergate Brewery and Distillery in Long Melford. The participating cars spanned the decades, from a 1938 Jaguar SS100 to a 2025 Porsche 911 Carrera. The drivers arrived at the brewery in time for lunch, leaving the cars on display while activities took place during the afternoon to encourage more donations.

Lindsey Cape, Director of Comms and Fundraising at Variety said: “The enthusiasm and commitment we've seen from everyone at Bellway since the partnership began has been incredible.

“The Variety Charity Drive is a fantastic example of colleagues, suppliers and partners coming together to make a real difference to disabled children and young people across the UK. Every pound raised will help us provide life-changing support, from Sunshine Coaches and wheelchairs to specialist equipment, and Great Days Out activities, giving children greater independence and opportunities they may not otherwise have.

“We’re incredibly grateful to Ian and everyone at Bellway who made the Variety Charity Drive such a success.” Bellway, one of the UK’s largest housebuilders, is creating communities across Essex and the wider Southeast area. The company supports communities and charities as part of its strategy to remain a sustainable and responsible business.