A group of Eastbourne travel agents have organised a coach trip to raise money for a local charity supporting families with children with special educational needs and disabilities.

The team from Hays Travel on Terminus Road in Eastbourne took more than 20 customers to the Portsmouth Christmas Markets on Saturday 6 December, with the funds from ticket sales going to Amaze Sussex.

Hays Travel colleagues entertained their passengers on route with a quiz and raffle.

The charity coach trip raised a whopping £578 in total for the charity which supports families with children with special educational needs and disabilities.

Travel consultant, Amanda Goodsell, said: “We're proud to have been able to raise money for Amaze.

"They have helped two members of staff in our branch, as well as some of the customers on the trip and our coach driver for the day.

"The day went well and the weather was kind, with the sun even making an appearance! Our customers really enjoyed doing their Christmas shopping."

Hannah Allbrooke, of Amaze Sussex, said: “Amaze is a local charity which provides vital support and connection for families with disabled children and young people in Sussex.

"The money raised by Hays Travel for Amaze helps children and young people living with disability to navigate the complex world of special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). 

“Supporting Amaze means you're helping friends, neighbours and people you know access expert advice, practical support and a community of other families with similar experiences.”

Hays Travel is the UK’s largest independent travel agent, with branches across the UK - all committed to supporting their customers and the local communities they serve.

Each Hays Travel branch is provided with a £500 budget to use for fundraising and charity work in their local area; £200 of this is to be used to fundraise for charities which support young people’s mental health, and the other £300 can be used for charities chosen by the branch.

In the last year, Hays Travel’s Local Community Partnership initiative across its retail network has donated over £177,000 to local charities.