A children’s charity has received a huge donation after winning an unprecedented public vote.

Beams was one of six charities nominated by the Freemasons in west Kent to receive the £25,000 grant, with more than 178,000 people voting on which should get it.

The charity came out on top and the money will be used to help support disabled youngsters and their families living in the Dartford, Gravesham and Swanley areas.

Operations director Katrina Adams said: “The grant of £25,000 which we have been awarded following the public vote is hugely important. We are very grateful to all of our friends and supporters who took the time to vote for us. We plan to use this money to support our disabled children with more severe and complex needs.

“We are over the moon with this as it will create fantastic memories, fun, and something different for these children during the long school holiday. You should never underestimate the difference a play scheme or a day trip out can make to a child that spends their days in the same structured routine or in a hospital or with health care professionals. Beams injects fun into their lives.”

The children and young people looked after by Beams will typically have one or multiple learning difficulties, complex health needs, physical or sensory impairment, challenging behaviour, autism or severe ADHD.

Beams is reliant on donations to operate and needs to raise £1.4m this year to continue its good work.

The £25,000 grant, which was given out as part of the Freemason’s Community Awards, will help the charity look after the 350 children and families it supports during an average week.