Vertu Newcastle Ford has raised £2,600 for a grassroots basketball charity through a test drive event.

The dealership teamed up with Newcastle Eagles, who play at the Vertu Motors Arena, supporting the club’s Eagles Community Foundation.

The foundation supports youth development, and intends to increase participation in grassroots basketball in the area.

Vertu Newcastle brought a range of new Ford electric vehicles (EVs) – as well as a Mustang – to the stadium, and donated £30 for each test drive.

Along with test drives, the day also featured basketball matches and training sessions.

Robert Forrester, chief executive of Vertu, said: “Our partnership with the Eagles goes back over a decade, and is built on the shared values of ambition, teamwork, and a deep commitment to the communities we serve.

“Supporting events like this isn’t just about raising money, it’s about creating opportunities for young people to thrive, both on and off the court.”

The fundraising forms part of Ford’s Drive 4 UR Community scheme, which the manufacturer launched to help dealers support local charities through test-drive fundraisers.

Newcastle Eagles’ partnership with Vertu has enabled the team to launch a series of initiatives, including the Eagles Central Venue League, Hoops 4 Health, and Science of Basketball, all of which have driven a record level of basketball participation in the region.

Paul Blake, managing director of the Newcastle Eagles, added: “Vertu has been instrumental in helping us grow our community programmes over the past ten years.

“Their support has enabled us to reach more schools, train more coaches, and inspire the next generation of players.

“This event is another example of how business and sport can come together to make a real difference.”

The Newcastle Eagles are the most successful British club in basketball history, having won ten national titles, as well as the 2024/25 Super League Basketball Trophy.