A KNUTSFORD business has helped to send almost 80 seriously ill children to Florida for the holiday of a lifetime.

Oliver Valves, a manufacturing company based in Parkgate, has sponsored north west charity ‘Destination Florida’ and provided a donation to help send the children on the charity’s bi-annual trip.

The company’s staff have been raising money through the year to aid the cause, including a team of climbers who scaled Snowdon.

Michael Oliver, chairman and founder of Oliver Valves, who went down to meet the children before their departure, said: “It was absolutely thrilling to see the children so excited about their trip. Destination Florida is such a wonderful cause, providing a holiday of a lifetime and memories that will stay with them for many years to come.

“We’re delighted we’ve been able to contribute towards making it possible this year and I certainly look forward to helping them on future trips in the coming years.”

Taking off from Manchester Airport, the children will enjoy a week-long holiday in the ‘Sunshine State’ with their families and a support team of doctors, nurses and other carers.

Activities will include trips to Disneyworld and Cirque de Soleil.

For more information about Destination Florida, visit destinationflorida.org.uk