Chiltern Railways’ employees have fundraised £21,368 for the company’s 2017 charity partners, Bowel Cancer UK and Brake, the road safety charity.
During the year-long partnership, staff from all departments of the train operating company took part in fundraising activities for both charities, including the London to Brighton cycle ride, bake sales, on-station collections and advocacy through social media. The company also ran a charity train in April 2017, with Chiltern’s iconic class 121 ‘Bubble Car’ taking enthusiasts from Aylesbury to London and back.
The 12-month charity of the year partnerships are decided by company vote, and all employees are encouraged to take part.
Matt Prosser, Chiltern Railways’ Engineering Director, took part in the London to Brighton cycle ride, raising money for Brake alongside other staff members. He said:
“People from all areas of the business came together to raise money for these worthy causes, and we are so proud to support them. Bowel Cancer UK and Brake were selected by staff because the causes are personally significant to them and people they know. The work these charities do is invaluable to the community and any contribution we can make to help advocate for their cause is valuable, not only to them, but to staff members who hold these causes close to their hearts.”
Luke Squires, Director of Fundraising for Bowel Cancer UK, which recently merged with Beating Bowel Cancer, said:
“We’re incredibly grateful to Chiltern Railways’ staff and their customers for all the wonderful fundraising and their commitment to raise money for the charity. It will fund the highest quality bowel cancer research and essential information and support services that will save lives from the UK’s second biggest cancer killer. The 12-month partnership with Chiltern Railways offered a special opportunity to increase awareness of bowel cancer and the charity to a truly diverse audience – from commuters to families and tourists.”
Joe Fenton, Community Fundraising and Volunteer Liaison Officer at Brake, the road safety charity, said:
“As a small charity that relies on fundraising, Brake is extremely grateful to everyone at Chiltern for their fantastic support last year. The money that has been raised during 2017 will allow Brake to continue its important work, supporting bereaved and injured road crash victims and campaigning for safer roads.”
Chiltern’s 2018 charity partner of the year will be announced soon.
Published 16 March 2018.