Who is said to have invented the Christmas cracker? Which animal's nest is called a drey? A couple of the questions (see bottom of story for the answers) asked at the first charity quiz night at John Grose Ford and Kia in Lowestoft.

Eleven teams took part in nine rounds, covering a range of subjects with something for everyone. The quiz was won by local team Ipso Facto which got only five questions wrong during the whole evening.

The event was held to raise funds for local charities Age UK Suffolk and East Anglia's Children's Hospices (EACH).

John Grose sales manager Karl Rogers said: 'Members of our team have seen first-hand the fantastic facilities and support services offered by East Anglia's Children's Hospices to the whole family.

'We have also worked with Age UK Suffolk and are very aware of the invaluable support they give to elderly people in our area, which is so important, particularly at this time of year, so we were only too pleased to host the quiz night to help raise funds and awareness for them both.'

The modern and airy Ford and Kia showroom at John Grose, in Whapload Road, was refurbished in 2011 and offered an ideal venue for the evening.

'It was great to welcome people, who had never visited us before, into our dealership as well as to see some friendly, familiar faces,' he added. 'We have a great team here and I hope all who attended will feel comfortable to visit us again – for next year's quiz if not before!'

Compering the quiz was Simon Jay, PGA professional and director of golf at Seckford Golf Club, who did a brilliant job of running the show and getting a few jokes in along the way. Support was also given by Hotel Victoria in Lowestoft.

The evening raised £810 which has been split equally between Age UK Suffolk and East Anglia's Children's Hospices.

Gemma Smith, EACH corporate fund-raiser said: 'Thank you so much to all the staff at John Grose who organised the quiz and all those who attended for raising such a fantastic sum. All the funds raised will help support the vital work of EACH in providing care to children and young people with life-threatening conditions and their families.'

Jo Reeder, business development officer for Age UK Suffolk, said: 'We are delighted that John Grose have chosen to support Age UK Suffolk with their series of quiz nights, which are always popular fund-raising events. All of the money raised from this will go directly to supporting older people in the county with what can often be vital services and support.'

n For more information on events at John Grose, including the annual Motability Awareness Day which is held in June, telephone Jennifer Reed on 01473 242220, email jenniferreed@johngrose.co.uk, visit the dealership or log on to the news section of www.johngrose.co.uk

The answers to the questions at the start of this story are Tom Smith and a squirrel.