Caring cinema staff are going to scoop up charity cash for disadvantaged youngsters.

Staff at the Odeon at the Eagles Meadow in Wrexham will be handing out free ice cream between 10.30am and 9.30pm on Tuesday April 14.

However, customers will be asked for a charitable donation with all funds going to support the work of The Variety Club.

The charity helps give children an equal opportunity to reach their potential, regardless of their circumstances.

It does this through things like providing wheelchairs and specialist medical equipment, supporting hospices and youth clubs, and giving children cherished childhood memories.

Last year the Odeon handed out over 900 free ice cream cones to hungry customers.

Each year Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield, founders of the American-based ice-cream giants Ben and Jerry’s say “thank you” to their loyal customers by giving away free cones on one particular day.

They have made the annual gesture since the company was launched in 1979, so visitors to the Odeon can enjoy an unexpected treat.

Cinema General Manager Kenny Kempster said: “It’s a great idea and customers will be served one scoop of their favourite flavour for free. All that we ask for is a small charitable donation towards The Variety Club.

“There is nothing to stop customers having as many scoops as they want but they will only be served one at a time. We hope to do even better than we did last year and raise as much money for the charities as we can.

“All Odeon cinemas in the UK will be raising funds for The Variety Club during Ben and Jerry’s Free Cone Day.

“The response last year was excellent. People don’t mind giving something when it’s for such a good cause.”

Eagles Meadow manager Kevin Critchley added: “It was a fantastic day last year and I’m delighted that it’s happening again this year. The Variety Club is a wonderful charity that gives children the support to reach their potential and the cone day is a great way to support it.”

For more information about the Variety Club visit www.variety.org.uk