BUSINESSES across Worcestershire have been pulling together to help a charity for children with special needs.

In recognition of its 70th anniversary, Dudley's Coaches is supporting Worcestershire Pre-school Learning Alliance VIP Scheme.

The main fundraising initiative is a grand raffle, which it is hoped will raise around £1,000 for the scheme.

After contacting local businesses, Dudley's, of Radford, near Inkberrow, has secured a number of top prizes for the raffle and plans to begin selling tickets in March.

Eye Opticians, in Barnt Green, has donated one of the main raffle prizes - Versace designer sunglasses, worth over £130. The UK agent for Erdinger Weissbier, based in Feckenham, has also pledged a case of beer and some gift presentation packs, which include a collectable branded Erdinger beer glass.

Other companies to support the raffle include Webbs of Wychold, which has donated vouchers, local Avon and Fairtrade representatives have pledged hampers of "goodies" and, from further afield, Sir Terry Wogan - who also celebrates his 70th birthday this year - has sent a signed photograph and BBC Radio 2 sweatshirt.

The alliance, which offers guidance to parents and a network of volunteers, helping children with disabilities or illnesses to attend preschool settings and day nurseries, is facing closure after the Big Lottery withdrew its funding earlier this year.

It has so far received about £15,000 in donations enabling the office in Bromsgrove to remain open until the end of March.

However, the alliance is still seeking further funds to continue its work throughout the county.

Chris Dudley, managing director of Dudley's, said: "There are a variety of fund-raising initiatives planned and all proceeds will go towards helping the scheme, following its recent failure to secure future funding from the Big Lottery."

Any other local businesses who would like to offer support by donating a prize, should email sarah@bigsplashcommunications.co.uk

If you would like to register your interest in buying a raffle ticket contact Dudley's Coaches on 01386 792206 or email info@dudleys-coaches.co.uk