Close Brothers Motor Finance has raised over £4,500 for automotive charity, BEN, by taking part in the ‘Bangers4Ben’ rally.
The annual charity event, Bangers4Ben, sees teams purchase a vehicle for under £750, theme it as they please, and drive thousands of miles across famous European locations over four days. Following the event, the vehicles are sold at auction with all proceeds going to BEN. Since its inception 16 years ago, Bangers4Ben has raised over half a million pounds for the charity.
This year, Close Brothers Motor Finance Retail Portfolio Manager, Richard Hogarth-Asso, and Senior Underwriter, Shania Bamford, participated in the event, raising money in their Minions-themed Ford Focus estate. Whilst raising contributions and awareness, Richard and Shania drove their banger across some of the finest mountain passes that France, Switzerland and Germany have to offer, beginning the journey in Calais and ending at the famous Nürburgring before heading back.
BEN was created to support those most in need within the automotive industry and relies solely on donations. Due to the ongoing cost-of-living crisis and recent economic turmoil, many people have been left struggling to pay bills and without the everyday necessities we all need. Following the event and generous donations it’s colleagues, Close Brothers Motor Finance was able to smash its target and raised £4,526 for BEN. These donations will play a crucial role in ensuring that BEN continues to provide tailored support to people who have worked or are currently working in the automotive industry.
Richard Hogarth-Asso, Retail Portfolio Manager at Close Brothers Motor Finance, commented: “It was an absolute privilege to take part in Bangers4Ben, representing the charity and Close Brothers Motor Finance along the way.
“Whether it was first-timers such as Shania and I, or people who have participated before, everyone had a joint connection - raising funds for those most in need, It’s amazing to hear and see how BEN supports the motor industry, and knowing that our car raised money for a special charity is incredibly rewarding.”
Shania Bamford, Senior Underwriter at Close Brothers Motor Finance, added: “It was an amazing experience to take part in this years’ Bangers4Ben event, and wonderful to see so many companies coming together to raise money for a fantastic charity.
“I am grateful to have taken part in this journey and spread awareness of a charity that is so important to our industry. The resources and support that BEN offers are invaluable, and incredibly beneficial to those that need it.”
Further information about BEN can be found here: https://giving.ben.org.uk/profile
