Some of the UK’s most deserving children have received a very special treat courtesy of Ferrari North Europe, in partnership with the British Racing Drivers’ Club. 50 youngsters were taken around the Silverstone Circuit in a fleet of Ferrari California sports cars, chauffeured by professional drivers and talented young members from the BRDC’s ‘SuperStars’ scheme. Also taking the wheel were Fifth Gear presenter Jason Plato and Pink Floyd drummer and noted Ferrari enthusiast, Nick Mason.

Also in attendance was a very special guest from Italy – Ferrari driver Marc Gené who spent time talking to the children about their favourite Ferraris and what it’s like to be a Formula One driver.

The children were all nominated by two charities, Starlight, which brightens the lives of seriously and terminally ill children by granting their wishes, and the automotive industry charity, BEN. Aged from six to 16, the children had journeyed from all parts of the UK to attend the Ferrari California experience and each had a different story to tell. Some are bravely battling illness; others have devoted themselves to caring for family members. All were united in enjoying an incredible day that left a lasting impression on all who attended.

Whilst each child was treated to a 15-minute passenger ride, their families were given unique access to the exclusive BRDC Clubhouse, which is decorated with evocative images of racing cars and memorabilia charting Silverstone’s illustrious history.

A different kind of driving experience was on offer thanks to a giant Hot Wheels track which entertained children throughout the morning, while children also had the chance to get creative and graffiti their own Ferrari California on a YrWall, the world’s first digital graffiti wall. Meanwhile acclaimed contemporary artist Ian Cook was busy outside using remote control cars to create a picture of a Ferrari California, with some of the children also helping him paint the car by remote control cars!

Bringing the event to a climax was an incredible 15-minute display by The Blades, one of the world’s most sought-after aerobatic teams, who finished off the morning with an incredible aerial display which topped off the event perfectly.

On departing the children were each presented with a unique souvenir, a USB stick featuring footage from their own personal ride captured by two on-board cameras, as well as a gift bag from the Ferrari Store with a number of Ferrari gifts.

Among those enjoying the day was 7-year-old Drew James from Swanley in Kent. Said his mother, Debbie: "Drew has been really sick with acute myeloid leukaemia and has fought hard for his life. He lost his hair during his treatment and of course there have been lots of tears along the way. We were blown away by everything that was done for us today. The effect it has had on Drew is immeasurable. As we left he told me "That was awesome!" - and it really was. On behalf of all the children, we can't thank Ferrari, Starlight and everyone else concerned enough.”

Ferrari California Experience – Partners

The Ferrari California experience would not have happened without the participation of a number of organisations and individuals who so generously donated their time and expertise:

Starlight is the national charity that brings smiles and laughter into the lives of seriously and terminally ill children, who are afraid and in pain, by granting wishes and creating innovative entertainment for children in hospitals and hospices. Starlight is there for children and their families in their time of need, strengthening family bonds and creating happy memories for everyone to share and cherish, whatever the future holds. Happy children respond better to treatment and each year Starlight helps over half a million children to forget about their illness and simply have a bit of fun.

BEN is the UK’s only charity for those who work, or have worked, in the automotive and related industries and their dependants. As well as providing practical, emotional and financial support to over 15,000 people every year, BEN also has four residential centres around the country, offering a range of services from nursing to end of life care. In addition, it owns and runs a day care centre, based in Coventry, where those within the industry can leave an elderly relative to be cared for while they work.

The BRDC SuperStars scheme was launched by the Silverstone-based British Racing Drivers' Club in 2008 as part of its on-going commitment to the development and progression of British racing talent. It involves working with young drivers away from the racing environment, engaging them in a programme of events and workshops throughout the year to enhance their communication and marketing skills. In addition the club and their patrons are on hand to coach and advise the drivers as their seasons unfold.

Silverstone Circuit has been hosting world class race meetings since 1948. Last year it secured a record 17-year deal to host the Formula One British Grand Prix, a significant milestone in its bid to become the world's premier motor sport venue. Services are not limited to just race meetings. Silverstone also provides an exciting range of products that include driving experiences, corporate entertainment, conferencing and exhibitions, track or venue hire and event management.

Established ten years ago by MD, Sallyann Keizer, Sixth Sense Media Ltd is a successful independent TV production company, producing programmes of excellence for the broadcast, corporate and third sectors. Over the past decade, the company has been responsible for creating a number of groundbreaking broadcast network series. With a keen interest in human interest output, Sixth Sense is known for its ability to build strong working relationships with contributors and clients alike as well as for its personal and highly ethical approach to programme-making.

With four former pilots from the elite RAF Red Arrows at the controls, The Blades are one of the most sought-after aerobatic teams. They are also in the unique position of being the world’s only fully accredited aerobatic airline. The Blades’ thrilling 15-minute aerobatic display includes close-formation loops and rolls, high-speed passes and dramatic solo routines, some of which can be experienced by the guests who come to fly with the team!

Wyndham-Leigh Ltd is a Midlands-based PR, digital and events company that works in a wide variety of sectors, but specialises in automotive PR. Headed by divisional director Andy Hill, the company has provided ground-breaking video services for its automotive clients to compliment its media event management. For this event, the team equipped the collection of Ferrari California sportscars with the latest equipment provided by its supplier, Racelogic.

Based in Buckingham, Racelogic designs cutting-edge GPS and video systems for automotive testing and motorsport. For the Ferrari California experience, they provided their new Video VBOX systems to capture footage of each lap and to provide the perfect memento. Video VBOX has found popularity with track day and racing drivers, who use the accurate GPS, multi camera video and customisable graphic overlay to record their driving which in turn enables them to view their performance with ease.

Popbang Colour is artwork created by contemporary artist Ian Cook. The theme of cars has always been present in Cook’s artwork, whether it is through the medium of photography, painting or sculpture. The young British artist has become well known for creating unique paintings using radio control cars, car tyres and toy car wheels. Cook predominately creates his artwork live as a performance at a variety of motoring events and race circuits.

Aspire delivers the finest food and the best service, in some of the world's most exciting venues. Since establishing Aspire three years ago, directors Sean Valentine and Steven Saunders have steered the company through the successful operation of three British Grand Prix and Abu Dhabi’s glittering first. Aspire also provides full hospitality for all events and retail catering at the Silverstone and Yas Marina Circuits, 365 days a year.

The world’s first digital graffiti wall, YrWall is the creation of Lumacoustics, an inventive creative company researching, designing and building interactive and engaging visual experiences, Guests get to create art on a large scale using a digital spray can. Although it feels just like spraying real paint on a wall, there is no paint involved - only infrared light which gets tracked as the user paints. Once complete, the artwork is sent via email or uploaded to Facebook right from the digital wall.

Part of the Mattel empire, Hot Wheels is the world's number one toy vehicles brand.  With over two billion sold since the company’s launch in September 1968, the iconic orange track and souped-up fantasy vehicles have been a favourite among boys for over 40 years. With speed, power, performance and attitude at their heart, these 1:64 die-cast cars continue to 'fuel' the imagination of boys, both young and old, all over the world.