A TOP Gloucestershire racing team brought Herbie the VW Beetle to thrill life limited local youngsters at Acorns Children's Hospice.

VW’s Complete Utilities’ Racing Team, of Gloucester, brought a sparkle to the eyes of children at Acorns for the Three Counties in Worcester, as they came up close and personal with the race-winning 170 mph super Beetle, competing in the VW Championships.

The youngsters quizzed the team and enjoyed a hands-on experience of the car, in full colours, amid the roar of the 250 bhp, 3.2 V6 power unit.

Taking a front row seat was two-year-old Acorns’ boy Nathan Massey, of Redditch, who has a rare genetic condition. 

He was able to sit in the hot racer with delighted mum Amber, who said: “It was really good, Nathan loved it.”

The visit to Acorns was arranged by Complete Racing’s Craig Davis, who works with Acorns’ dad Shaun Griffiths. 

He said:  “We have had a brilliant season, and we also race an Aston Martin. 

“It was great to see the children’s faces when they saw Herbie, and to see the wonderful work of Acorns Children's Hospice first hand.”

To find out more about the work of Acorns Children's Hospice, which has its headquarters in Wythall, and how to help raise vital funds call Acorns on 0845 120 6892 or see acorns.org.uk.