ROCK superstar Noddy Holder was on hand to accept a bumper donation for a children's charity.

The former Slade frontman took delivery of a cheque for £55,000 on behalf of the Children's Adventure Farm Trust (CAFT), where he is a patron.

CAFT - based in Millington, Cheshire - will use the donation to purchase a new, state of the art adapted 14 seater minibus which will be used to transport ill, disabled and disadvantaged children from all over the North West to and from the Adventure Farm for holidays and day trips.

The new vehicle will replace one of the charity’s old buses, and will include tail and side lifts for children with mobility difficulties and space to accommodate up to three large electric wheelchairs.

The charity provides holidays, day trips and Christmas parties for disabled, ill and disadvantaged children from all over the north west at its converted farmhouse set within 10 acres of land in Millington, Cheshire - just outside Altrincham.

While visiting The Adventure Farm the children take part in activities such as sports, animal care, arts and crafts and music therapy.

Noddy accepted the cheque from Cheshire Freemasons' provincial grand master, Stephen Martin Blank.

Anne Jackson, chief executive of the charity, said: “We really cannot thank Cheshire Freemasons enough for this amazing gift.

"We are desperate for a new minibus and are counting down the days until August when our new bus will be delivered. It’s much more than just a vehicle to us, it represents independence, comfort and security for children living with disabilities and difficulties that most of us couldn't comprehend.

"Saying thank you doesn’t really seem enough – so we just keep on saying it!”

Stephen Martin Blank, Provincial Grand Master, was joined on the day by fellow Freemason’s representatives Colin Ross and Derek Brook.

He said: “We are delighted to be able to support CAFT as one of our recipient charities benefiting from some £500,000 donated to charity during this, our tercentenary year. The contribution to the adventure farm is part of our commitment to supporting our community.

"I sincerely hope that the new minibus will help CAFT to continue its wonderful work.”

If you wish to support CAFT, or just for further information you can call the fundraising department on 01565 830 053 or visit www.caft.co.uk.