TV star Esther Rantzen has met staff from a Cannock garage to thank them for their support in raising crucial funds for the NSPCC’s Child’s Voice Appeal which aids its ChildLine service.

Simon Grant, manager of Nationwide Autocentre in Cannock, met Ms Rantzen to find out more about the service as the company launched a fundraising partnership with the charity.

The company has launched an initiative which will see it donate £10 on behalf of customers paying for a service and £5 for those paying for an MoT to the Child’s Voice Appeal, allowing more calls from children in need of help and support to be answered.

Ms Rantzen said: “ChildLine receives 2.3 million calls each year with one third going unanswered. In a recession, when vulnerable families suffer and it is more difficult to recruit donors, the support of corporate partners is vital to ensure children get the support they need.

“Nationwide Autocentre is one company that has responded most generously to the NSPCC’s appeal for help.

“Our nightmare is the terrified child who rings ChildLine only to find all our lines are busy and they never pluck up the courage to ring again.

“These donations will save precious lives and protect children from pain. On behalf of vulnerable children I would thank Nationwide Autocentre and its customers.” Each donation made by Nationwide Autocentre will answer up to two calls to ChildLine or the NSPCC Helpline for adults concerned about the welfare of a child.

Mr Grant said: “Esther took the time to explain how the appeal works and gave some great examples of situations where the advice line has helped to change, and even save, lives. I think everyone was committed to helping the charity after seeing the passion Esther had for the cause.

“Over the next three months, Nationwide Autocentre is aiming to raise at least £50,000, which will mean that a further 12,500 calls get answered and, after hearing some of Esther’s stories, we now know how vital it is that those calls do get heard.

“This initiative is a good example of a very practical way in which businesses and consumers can continue to support charity.

“Just by having an MOT or service for their cars, our customers will be helping us to make a difference.”