A Suffolk charity dedicated to transforming the lives of people with a disability or cancer is being given a boost after a motor company announced plans to support it in 2018.

Family run business John Banks Group, based in East Anglia, has named the GeeWizz charitable foundation as charity of the year and hopes to host fundraising activities at its seven dealerships in Suffolk and Cambridgeshire.

Bosses said they were delighted to support the charity’s commitment to helping families in the region.

The company’s chief executive Melanie Banks-Browne said: “I have known Gina Long for many years and have seen the difference she has made to many families with her charity work in the area.

“Her and Andrew really dedicate themselves to making a difference.

“We also like the fact that GeeWizz prides itself on 100% transparent giving, where 91.5p out of every pound donated or raised goes straight to changing the lives of local families.

“I am delighted that the John Banks Group can help with fundraising for this wonderful charity.

Ms Banks-Browne added: “John Banks have always supported many community projects with sponsorship and support across East Anglia and will continue to do so where possible.”

Several events are planned for the year across Suffolk and Cambridgeshire to support the work of GeeWizz.

Founder Gina added: “Since GeeWizz was founded in December 2015, we have been wonderfully supported by our generous local community.

“This has allowed us to directly change so many local lives and really make a difference.

“I am truly grateful to Melanie Banks-Browne and the team at John Banks for their support throughout 2018.

She added: “We look forward to supporting them every step of the way.”

GeeWizz was set up to support children and young adults living with a life-threatening condition or disability across East Anglia.

It also provides help and advice to those who are affected by cancer – particularly Sarcoma.

The charity also helps to fund the provision of equipment for families affected by such illnesses and conditions.

Discover more about the charity’s work by visiting their website.