Close Brothers Motor Finance employees have raised £31,000 for the NSPCC and Cancer Research UK through a series of charity events.

Employees from the business took part in a range of fundraising initiatives, including a mini Olympics between all of Close Brothers Motor Finance’s offices.

Close Brothers Motor Finance’s chief executive James Broadhead said: “I’d like to commend the efforts of all those who took part in charity initiatives to raise funds for the NSPCC and Cancer Research UK.

"Raising a vast amount of money through these events for two crucial charities chosen by our own employees, demonstrates our commitment to giving back and supporting those in need.”

Its network of dealers also got involved, with some branches putting their account managers up for auction to wash cars, make drinks and work at a dealership for day.

Other fund-raising initiatives included a dress down day, quizzes and silent and branch auctions for dealers and employees.

The money raised for NSPCC will go towards its Speak our Safe programme to teach children how to protect themselves from abuse, primary school visits to promote the programme and training for Childline volunteers.

The money raised for Cancer Research UK will go towards supporting their scientists to learn more about cancer cells, the purchase of next generation DNA experiment and training PhD and research students.