MEMBERS at a health and fitness club in Thurrock have played their part in a major charity fundraising operation.

The Bannatyne Health Club in Chafford Hundred is one of a number in the chain in the South East that have come together to help hundreds of children in the developing world receive life-changing surgery.

The clubs held a range of events during a dedicated Smile Week which raised £33,718.55 with members and staff getting involved. The clubs embraced the charity and its objectives – £150 can fund a life-changing cleft operation for a child and the collective effort has transformed the lives of more than 220 children, bringing each child the chance to live their lives to the full.

Duncan Bannatyne, who is an ambassador of the charity, recently visited Philippines with Operation Smile, following previous trips to Mexico, Vietnam and Ghana to see for himself the life-changing work being carried out by the charity.

On his visits Duncan witnessed some of the operations first-hand and got to know many of the parents and children who the charity is helping.

Gabby Whitehorn, Duncan's daughter, has been involved with the Students Programme with Operation Smile after taking part in three missions with Duncan and his wife Nigora.

Anthony Elliott, operations director of The Bannatyne Group, said: "Duncan is a proud supporter of Operation Smile and each year the health clubs get involved in Smile Week to raise money and awareness for the charity.

"We are delighted to have been able to make such a significant contribution to a worthwhile and life-changing project and would like to say a huge 'thank-you' to our members and staff for helping to achieve a record-breaking figure."