CAR aficionados from Swindon and beyond gathered at Wroughton airfield on Saturday for an event in aid of two children's charities.

Members of the 'Because Grease Monkees' group came together at the Swindon Karting Centre to show off their motors, chat about modifications and generally have an enjoyable time in the sun.

The group was put together less than a year ago but has already grown at an impressive rate - it even boasts international members drawn to the friendly atmosphere that was a key aim of founders Daniel Tombs and Nat Marriott.

"We were part of car groups ourselves and used to go to shows", said Daniel, 27.

"But the Swindon car scene was dying out. Everyone was getting arrested or given warning notices by the police.

"We thought let's change it up and do things differently. Let's show people we're not all boy racers and we're not just out to terrorise everyone.

"We all like to have a bit of fun now and then but events like this are very family friendly.

"We're all here for the same reason and that's because we share a passion for the cars."

The group started off with about 50 members but in the space of six months it expanded to include more than 3,800.

Social media has allowed likeminded people from across Europe and even in the United States to get involved.

A new chapter - Because Grease Monkees North - was recently launched and the man responsible for running it, Chris Kennedy, made the long journey down to Swindon from Glasgow to be part of the event on Saturday.

As well as the more typical car-meet selection of pristine looking hatchbacks and powerful saloons on display in the bright sunshine, there were also some more unusual attractions.

Wiltshire Police were on hand to give the youngest visitors a chance to sit in the police car and test out the sirens while firefighters from Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue

Service made also made an appearance with perhaps the most kitted out vehicle of all in the form of a fire engine.

But for all the fun that was taking place, there was also a more serious reason for holding the event.

Any money raised was going towards two charities who focus on stillborn and poorly premature babies - Cots for Tots and Swindon SANDS - both of which are very close to Daniel's heart.

"Back in 2014 I lost a little boy due to him being prematurely," he said.

"These two charities helped me beyond any recognition I could ever give them.

"I wanted to use the car scene that I'm passionate about to bring everyone together and help raise some money for some well deserving charities."